BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force has confirmed that it has begun fully enforcing the ban on smoking in public places, following an extended period of public education and notice.
Over the weekend, police shared excerpts of the Smoking (Designated Areas) Act, 2023 and the Freedom of Conscience (Cannabis) Act, 2023 on social media, reminding the public that smoking and vaping are prohibited in all public spaces unless conducted within a licensed, designated smoking area.
The notice states that the law applies to all smoking and vaping devices, including electronic cigarettes.
Since the legislation was passed, concerns have been raised about enforcement, particularly as public smoking—especially marijuana use—became more visible at social events such as fetes, parties and major festivals, including the St. Kitts Music Festival and Carnival activities.
While police had previously warned that the law would be enforced during Carnival, many members of the public complained that little action was taken during the busy Christmas and Carnival season.
Addressing those concerns, Police Commissioner James Sutton explained that the initial focus was on education.
“Smoking in public will be addressed at all levels,” Sutton said. “ During our engagement, public address, public entertainment, [and] public advertisement, we’re going use all available platforms to educate persons." We thought that even though we sent out notice, we realised the notice would have been short and we wanted to have engagement with the public as well regard smokng in public place and the issuance of tickets".
The police confirmed that enforcement has now begun, noting that officers have already issued at least one ticket.
In reiterating the scope of the law, police reminded the public that a “public place” includes any indoor or outdoor area accessible to the public, whether publicly or privately owned. This includes, but is not limited to, bars, restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals, churches, government buildings, public transportation, community centres, roads and other public thoroughfares.
Smoking is only permitted in areas clearly marked as Designated Smoking Areas with the required signage. If an area is not clearly marked, smoking is prohibited.
Under the law, individuals who smoke in prohibited areas face a fixed penalty of $500, with additional penalties possible.
Police emphasized that the legislation is aimed at protecting public health while balancing individual choice.
“While the right of adults to choose to smoke is acknowledged, and respected, the collective right of all citizens to a safe and healthy environment must also be upheld,” the force stated.
Residents and visitors are being urged to comply fully with the law as enforcement continues.
