France To Ban Smoking in Public Spaces, Effective July 2025

Starting July 1, 2025, France will enforce a smoking ban in outdoor areas frequented by children. The new regulation will prohibit smoking at beaches, parks, bus stops, school entrances, and sports venues.

Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin announced the measure on Thursday, May 29. Speaking to Ouest-France newspaper, Vautrin stated, “Tobacco must disappear where there are children. The freedom to smoke ends where children’s right to breathe clean air begins.”

The ban also applies to students smoking in front of schools. Offenders risk a fine of up to €135 ($154).

However, this restriction will not affect France’s renowned outdoor cafe terraces or the use of electronic cigarettes.

Smoking is already prohibited in various public spaces across France, including workplaces, airports, train stations, and playgrounds. Anti-smoking advocates have long pushed for broader smoking restrictions.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 35% of the French population smokes—well above the European average of 25% and the global average of 21%.