Baden-Württemberg expands smoking ban to playgrounds, bus stops and outdoor pools

On 1 June 2026 the German state of Baden‑Württemberg enacted a stricter non‑smoking protection law. The regulation bans smoking, e‑cigarettes, vapes and shisha at locations frequented by children and teenagers, including playgrounds, schoolyards, tram and bus stops, outdoor swimming pools, zoos and amusement parks.

Designated smoking zones may be created in some facilities if they do not disturb other guests. Small smoking rooms in certain restaurants, discotheques, shisha bars and gaming halls remain permitted, and beer, wine and festival tents are excluded from the ban. Violations can be fined up to €200 for a first offence and €500 for repeat offences; operators who fail to enforce the rules face higher penalties.

The measure aims to reduce passive‑smoke exposure, especially for young people. A recent health institute survey found that 9.6 % of 12‑ to 17‑year‑olds use nicotine products, up from 6.1 % in 2021, prompting officials to strengthen protection against the health risks of second‑hand smoke.