City of Austin

To create healthier, safer and cleaner places to play, Austin City Council voted on December 15, 2011 to implement smoke-free public parks, trails and green spaces.

The amendment to the Smoking in Public Places Ordinance prohibiting smoking in City parks went into effect on December 26, 2011.  Violations could result in a Class C Misdemeanor and a fine not to exceed $2,000.  This smoking restriction applies to all parks, athletic fields, recreation center sites, senior centers, nature preserves, swimming pools and all other Austin Parks and Recreation Department property. 

Municipal Golf Courses are also included in the restriction, however, there is an exemption for people playing a round of golf.  Smoking is prohibited at all golf practice facilities including driving ranges and practice putting greens.

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to supporting clean, safe environments that inspire healthy, active lives.