The goal is to reduce the number of deaths due to tobacco and to protect residents from second-hand smoke.
On January 01, 2005 The Tobacco Control Act, 2002 was amended to exclude all smoking in all enclosed public places. The Tobacco Control Act defines "enclosed public place" as "all or any part of a building or other enclosed public place on conveyance to which the public has access as of right or by express or implied invitation". This includes outdoor bus shelters, public buildings rented for private events, private clubs, bars, restaurants, billiard halls, bingo halls, bowling centres, casinos, restaurants, and retail stores.
Taxis are enclosed public places, during any period the vehicle is made available for hire, when waiting for clients and including any break period. Owners and operators are also encouraged to not smoke inside their taxis at all because smoking leaves a residue of chemicals in the vehicle.
Designated smoking rooms are not allowed under The Tobacco Control Act.
The Tobacco Control Act provides municipalities with the authority to create and enforce bylaws to restrict smoking in outdoor places such as open air sports grounds, entrances to public buildings, or outdoor patios.
Public Health Inspectors in Saskatchewan are designated to enforce the smoke-free public place provisions of The Tobacco Control Act.
If you have questions about interpretation of The Tobacco Control Act and The Tobacco Control Regulations please contact your local Public Health Inspector.