Spain has approved draft legislation that would ban smoking on beaches and introduce 15-metre smoke-free zones around public buildings, with fines starting at €200 (£173). The proposals are part of the country's Tobacco Prevention and Control Plan 2024-2027 and must still pass through parliament before becoming law.
Where smoking and vaping would be banned
If approved, smoking and vaping would be prohibited on sea and river beaches, public swimming pools, bar and restaurant terraces, sports facilities, national parks and at outdoor public events. The rules would also create 15-metre smoke-free zones around entrances to schools, hospitals, universities, libraries, museums, sports centres, cultural venues and children's playgrounds.
Under-18s explicitly banned from tobacco use
People under 18 would be explicitly banned from using tobacco and related products. Current laws prohibit selling to minors but do not specifically ban under-18s from smoking or vaping. Health Minister Monica García said the changes were designed to protect the public from second-hand smoke and reflect the rise of new nicotine products. She added: "Anyone who wants to have a coffee or enjoy their leisure time freely on a terrace should be able to do so without the smoke from nearby tables becoming part of the menu."
Fines and enforcement
Breaches could carry fines from €200 (£173) to €600,000 (£520,000), depending on severity. Minors caught using tobacco could face fines from €200, which may be replaced with community service. The legislation would also tighten rules on sale, advertising and sponsorship of tobacco-related products, with specialist retailers barred from displaying adverts visible from outside their shops. Authorities say the changes are intended to close legal loopholes created by the growing popularity of alternative nicotine products.
Timeline for implementation
The bill must still pass through Spain's parliament. If approved, it would come into force 20 days after publication in the country's official gazette, with businesses given two months to update signs marking smoke-free areas.
