How to Report Smoking in Bars
Smoking in bars is illegal in all but a handful of states, but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen. Scofflaws light up and ignore the signs on the wall, and certain bars let their regulars slide on the regulations. But the rules apply to everyone, and they're passed in the interest of public health. Reporting violations is as easy as calling the local board of health or tobacco-enforcement office.
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Instructions
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Look for signs. In many places where smoking is banned, the board of health posts notices and even a telephone number people can call to report violations.
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Write the number down on a napkin, coaster or other piece of scrap paper.
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Call the number in privacy. In most cases, the liability for a violation falls on the bar, not on the smoker who breaks the rules. Avoid an uncomfortable situation by making your call in private.
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Report the full details. Give the date and approximate time, the name of the bar, the address (if you know it or if it's printed on menus, matchbooks or coasters) and what you saw. As with any reporting of a legal violation, details are key. Include the number of people smoking, what they were smoking, where in the building the violation took place and whether there were ashtrays nearby. Note whether any bar employees asked the violators to stop smoking.
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Go online. If you do not find a telephone number or would rather make your report in writing, you may be able to do so. New York's Bureau of Tobacco Control, for example, has a violation-reporting form on its website.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you speak to the proper authority. In some places, violations are handled by the town board of public health. Bars in a county jurisdiction may answer to the county health department. Some cities have separate tobacco control offices.
