On Tuesday, the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to amend two ordinances prohibiting smoking and vaping in all county parks and on beaches within 600 feet of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. The changes apply to all residents and visitors in these areas.
According to St. Johns County, the updated regulations also include cigarette butts and vaping materials in the definition of litter. Improperly disposing of these items can result in a $53 fine. The amendments do not apply to cigar smoking, which remains allowed under state law for unfiltered cigars.
The county will use existing public-conduct and littering regulations to enforce the new rules. Individuals who violate the smoking and vaping restrictions can face penalties under the established county code. These measures apply to help maintain the cleanliness and order of county parks and beaches.
The new ordinances follow the Florida Legislature’s 2022 decision allowing local governments to restrict smoking in parks and beaches. Enforcement will follow established county regulations, and officials will monitor how the rules are applied.
