Following the introduction of stricter smoking laws in Australia and the West, the anti-smoking regulations have now reached the Island of Gods. The Province of Bali has formally broadcasted its new law on smoke-free zones in Bali. As per the new law, anyone caught breaking the no-smoking regulations in public places in Bali could end up paying a fine of 50,000Rp ($5), which doesn’t seem like much but how about going to jail for 3 months – no thanks!
Bali Introduces No Smoking Law in Public Places
The regulations laid down by the Smoke-free Areas Provincial Law No.7, 2013 stipulates that tobacco smoking is not allowed in public places in Bali. These places include places of education, work places, places of worship, recreation areas or areas frequented by children. Smoking in hospitals, maternity homes and other medical facility centres is also prohibited. The law also applies to public transport services and general public places including shopping malls, markets, restaurants and airports.
Public places can have designated smoke lounges within their premises like the Australian DOSA. Travellers coming to Bali should exercise special caution and avoid smoking in public areas mentioned above. The government will enforce strict supervision on smoke-free zones and anyone violating the law will have to abide by the penalty.
The new law encourages people to participate, educate and remind each other of smoking regulations. Under the law, whoever is responsible of the smoke-free zone who allows smoking in these areas is also subject to prosecution. The public can also report violations if they allow smoking in these areas.
Those coming for the first time to Bali can look for the no-smoking signage installed in the smoke-free zones. If you’re unsure about a particular area, it is always better to ask before you smoke. Restaurants and bars will have designated areas for smoking. But as yet the new Bali airport doesn’t have one so make sure you have a smoke before you reach the airport if you have to.
Nevertheless, we encourage you to be aware and know the laws before you visit any new destination. You don’t want to end up visiting the Kerobokan Prison.
