Basics

Smoking Regulations in Hawai'i

The Healthy Air & Workplaces Law

The State of Hawai’i has enacted The Smoke Free Hawaii law, designed to protect the health and wellbeing of people who do not want to be subjected to secondhand smoke. It is not a ban. Smokers may still purchase and use smoke-producing tobacco products in areas other than those designated as smoke-free under the law.

The Healthy Air & Workplaces Law restricts smoking in certain areas statewide to protect the health of people who do not want to be subjected to secondhand smoke. The law is effective on Nov. 16, 2006.

Where is smoking prohibited under the law:

In enclosed or partially enclosed facilities

• owned by the state or the counties.
• places that are open to the public, including private businesses.
• places of employment, including private membership clubs if they are a place of employment.

• In Hawai’i airports, from cabin to curb.
• Within 20 feet of doorways, windows and ventilation intakes in order to prevent secondhand smoke drifting into enclosed areas.
• In the enclosed, partially enclosed and seating areas of sports arenas, outdoor arenas, stadiums and amphitheaters.

Smoking in Hotels:

• Hotels and motels may designate and offer smoking in up to 20 percent of rooms. Visitors who smoke are urged to specify that they prefer a smoking room when making reservations.

How will the law be enforced:

• Clearly legible signs with the words “Smoking Prohibited by Law” or the international No Smoking symbol must be visibly posted at the entrances to every public place and workplace that is designated as non-smoking.
• Owners, managers, operators and employees of any establishment designated as non-smoking are responsible for informing violators of this law.
• Individual violators of this law are subject to fines.

Questions, concerns, violations and complaints can be directed to the Department of Health at (808) 586-4613 or, in Hawai’i, call the United Aloha Way Help Line at 211. Additional information and Business Resources can be found at www.hawaiismokefree.com.