Ban On Smoking, Vaping In Howell's Public Spaces Set For Enforcement

HOWELL, NJ — People who smoke or vape may face penalties this spring as Howell Township police start enforcing the township's ban on smoking in public places.

In April 2023, Howell Township updated its smoking ordinance to align with New Jersey's Smoke-Free Air Act, which bans smoking or vaping in public spaces such as parks, athletic facilities and similar places, the Howell Township Alliance and Howell police said in a joint news release. Howell's ordinance makes it "unlawful to smoke or vape in parks, recreational and athletic facilities, public places, and other township-owned properties, regardless of the substance smoked or vaped," the release said.

Howell Police Chief John Storrow said the enforcement this spring "is an effort to keep public parks and facilities enjoyable for all community members as the weather warms and the days grow longer."

"Families and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma have the right to enjoy the outdoors and fresh air without concern. The increased popularity of vaping and legalization of cannabis have heavily increased incidents of smoking in public, which is against the law," Storrow said.

Here is what the enforcement entails, said Christa Riddle, who heads the Howell Township Alliance:

• Howell Township Police Department officers will enforce the ban on smoking on public property and in public places by issuing summonses for violations, no matter what substance is being smoked or vaped (the substance being smoked will not need to be checked).

• Fines for smoking on public property and in public places are $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second offense, and $1,000 for the third and subsequent offenses.

• In lieu of the first offense, the Howell Township Municipal Court judge may discretionarily waive the $250 fee with proof of completion of RWJ Barnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery’s 8-week Nicotine and Tobacco Recovery Program (or another similar, accredited cessation program).

Signs posted around Howell Township aim to remind the public of the ban.