Vancouver, WA — A new Clark County ordinance going into effect Monday, June 1, subjects e-cigarettes and other vaping devices to the same restrictions as tobacco cigarettes under the Washington State Smoking in Public Places law. Ordinance 2015-04-18 is intended to protect people from the harmful effects of secondhand vapor while discouraging use among youth in particular. To help local businesses comply, Public Health is offering free signs and will provide information to food establishments during plan review, permit and inspection processes. For signs, call (360) 397-8000 ext. 7378. Here is additional information to help businesses and individuals comply: Information for employers Smoking and vaping are not allowed at any public place, place of employment or within 25 feet of entrances and exits, operable windows and ventilation intakes. Smoking and vaping are prohibited in outside service areas, such as patio-seating and "beer gardens," if employees work in or pass through the areas while on duty. Employers cannot require employees to work in or within 25 feet of outdoor designated smoking or vaping areas. Required signs for businesses Business owners must post "No Smoking, No Vaping" signs in conspicuous locations at each entrance and other prominent locations in the establishment. Signs are available free from Public Health. They can also be purchased from office supply, hardware and home improvement stores. Enforcing the laws Compliance with the Smoking in Public Places Law and Clark County Ordinance 2015-04-18 is the responsibility of the owner, manager, operator or other person in charge of an area open to the public or place of employment. Public Health will enforce these laws for businesses, including bars and restaurants. Local law enforcement agencies will address individuals violating the law. How to report violations Employees and the public may confidentially report violations to Public Health online at www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/concern.html or by calling (360) 397-2550 and leaving a message with the business name and address and time of the violation. Penalties for individuals and businesses A civil fine up to $100 can be imposed on individuals who violate the laws by smoking, vaping or destroying a sign allowed by the laws. Businesses will receive an initial warning serving as a notice for correction; if the infraction continues, they can be fined up to $100 per day. Exceptions to the law Clark County Ordinance 2015-04-18 exempts businesses that exclusively sell inhalant delivery systems. These businesses may allow customers to sample vaping products for sale inside the premises as long as the businesses have an independent ventilation system and a method of preventing vapor from traveling to adjacent businesses. Additional information For more information, call (360) 397-8000 ext. 7378 or visit www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/community/tobaccofree/publicsmoking.html