Use of e-cigarettes and ‘vaping’ not permitted on City properties

The City of Ottawa would like to inform residents that use of e-cigarettes and “vaping” on all City properties is prohibited, including on OC Transpo buses and properties, in City parks and outdoor municipal properties and on any other City properties.

Use of e-cigarettes and “vaping” on OC Transpo buses or properties is subject to enforcement action under Section 19(2)(h) of the Transit By-law, which prohibits anyone from interfering “with the comfort or convenience of any other person.” This restriction applies to City employees as well as members of the public. Users may be subject to enforcement action, including fines of up to $5,000.

In June 2012, City Council amended the City’s Parks and Facilities By-law to broaden the definition of “smoke” or “smoking” to capture a wider array of activities. This expanded definition effectively prohibits the use of e-cigarettes and “vaping” in City of Ottawa parks and on other outdoor municipal properties.

The use of e-cigarettes is also prohibited in City facilities or workplaces, by both employees and members of the public. Ottawa’s City Manager has directed that the City’s Smoke-Free Workplace Policy be revised to extend the current prohibitions on smoking to the use of e-cigarettes. Additionally, the Government of Ontario’s Bill 45, _ Making Healthier Choices Act _ , _ 2015 _ , is currently before the Provincial Legislature and, if passed, would prohibit the use of e-cigarettes in enclosed workplaces and public places.