Since Sunday June 29, 2025, new regulations have been in force in France, marking a significant step forward in the fight against smoking. The decree published in the Journal Officiel now bans smoking in several outdoor public spaces, including parks, beaches, bus shelters and around schools. This measure aims to protect the health of citizens, particularly children, and reduce exposure to passive smoking.
A ban extended to new public places
The Ministry of Health, headed by Catherine Vautrin, has specified that the ban applies within a perimeter of at least 10 meters around schools, libraries, swimming pools and sports facilities. Passenger waiting areas, such as bus shelters, are also covered. This extension of smoke-free areas is part of the “Génération sans tabac” plan, aimed at denormalizing tobacco consumption in public places frequented by young people.
Offenders are liable to a fixed fine of 135 euros, rising to 750 euros in the event of a repeat offence. An awareness-raising period is planned to accompany the implementation of this measure.
A clear public health objective
Tobacco remains one of the main causes of avoidable death in France, with over 75,000 deaths a year, or more than 200 a day. Cigarette consumption is particularly worrying among young people, with 15% of 17-year-olds smoking regularly. By banning smoking in outdoor public places, the government aims to reduce exposure to passive smoking and discourage young people from taking up smoking.
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Mixed reactions among citizens
The new ban has prompted contrasting reactions. Some welcome it as a measure to protect public health, while others see it as a further restriction of individual freedoms. Nevertheless, a majority of French people support initiatives to limit smoking in public spaces, recognizing the dangers of passive smoking.
The health consequences of smoking
Smoking a pack of cigarettes a day has serious health consequences. Risks include the development of cardiovascular disease, cancers (notably of the lung, throat and mouth), chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and fertility disorders. Passive smoking also exposes non-smokers to the same dangers, especially children and vulnerable people.
The consequences for your wallet
Cigarette smoking is not only a health hazard, it’s also a financial drain. At €12.50 for a pack of cigarettes a day, a smoker spends €375 a month, or €4,562.50 a year. Over 10 years, that’s €45,625 – the equivalent of a new, well-equipped car.
Over 20 years, the bill rises to €91,250, enough to buy an apartment in some regions. And over 30 years, it’s literally €136,875 gone up in smoke. This colossal budget could be invested in setting up a business, traveling around the world, building up retirement savings, or simply enjoying a more comfortable and free life. And this calculation doesn’t even take into account future price increases already announced. So quitting smoking also makes good economic sense. It’s up to you to decide whether you want to keep burning your money or take back control of your portfolio.
Solutions for quitting smoking
Faced with these risks, it is essential to support smokers in their efforts to quit. There are several methods available to help you quit smoking:
- Nicotine substitutes such as patches, chewing gum, lozenges or inhalers gradually reduce nicotine dependence.
- Behavioral therapies: psychological support to identify and modify smoking habits.
- Auricular reflexology (anti-smoking laser): this innovative method stimulates specific points in the ear with a gentle laser, reducing the urge to smoke and easing withdrawal symptoms.
Our company, MyLaserTabac, offers ear reflexology sessions to help smokers quit. This natural, pain-free method has shown promising results for many clients.
Conclusion
The ban on smoking in outdoor public places marks a major step forward in the fight against smoking in France. By protecting non-smokers and encouraging smokers to consider quitting, this measure is helping to improve public health. For those wishing to quit smoking, there are effective and appropriate solutions, such as auricular reflexology offered by MyLaserTabac. It’s never too late to take care of your health and say goodbye to smoking.
