France to Ban Smoking in Outdoor Areas Where Children Gather from July 2025

In a bold move to protect children from the dangers of secondhand smoke, France has announced that smoking will be banned in several outdoor public spaces starting July 1, 2025. The restriction will apply to areas where children are commonly present, including beaches, public parks, near schools, and outdoor sports venues.

Health and Families Minister Catherine Vautrin confirmed the new policy as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to curb tobacco use and safeguard public health. While smoking will still be allowed on café terraces and the use of e-cigarettes won’t be affected, anyone caught violating the ban could face a fine of €135.

This initiative forms part of France’s broader National Anti-Tobacco Programme (2023–2027), which aims to create a tobacco-free generation by 2032. Although the country has seen a historic drop in smoking rates—now at just under 25% of adults—tobacco remains a leading health risk.

More than 1,500 municipalities in France already have similar local bans in place, but this nationwide regulation strengthens the fight against smoking in public spaces, especially around children.

France joins a growing list of European countries stepping up restrictions on smoking in public to prioritize health and safety.