Five meters from others

Smokers in Turin must keep their distance outdoors

In Turin, smokers must now keep a minimum distance from other people when smoking outdoors (symbolic image).

(Bild: APA/Helmut Fohringer)

In the Italian city of Turin, smokers must now keep a distance of at least five meters from other people. If this is not possible, smoking outdoors is prohibited. Anyone who does not comply with the regulation must expect a fine of 100 euros.

"It's about respecting those who don't smoke and, in a way, also about promoting a culture of respect," said Turin Mayor Stefano Lo Rosso. The decision was "common sense." The ban applies to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes.

There is an exception to the minimum distance if other people "expressly agree." In the presence of children and pregnant women, however, smoking in the open air is completely prohibited.

Banned in public buildings since 2003
Italy is one of the EU countries with the strictest smoking bans. In 2021, the city of Milan imposed a ban on smoking at bus stops, cab ranks, stadiums, parks and cemeteries.

Since 2003, smoking has been banned in all public buildings, offices, restaurants, nightclubs and hotels unless there are completely separate rooms and a functioning ventilation system. Anyone who smokes a cigarette in public areas will be fined at least 27 euros. If you smoke in front of children or pregnant women, you could be fined up to 600 euros.