Queensland residents could be banned from smoking on their own balconies

A new proposal to change body corporate laws could see Queensland residents banned from smoking on their balconies.

It comes after a Queensland University of Technology study commissioned by state Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie found second-hand smoke can easily drift from balconies through open doors of neighbouring units, townhouses and apartments.

The proposed legislative changes would require all windows and doors be shut and residents only smoke inside, or that a designated smoking zone be created at unit complexes and apartment buildings.

At present, the only way someone can stop a neighbour from lighting up is by going through costly body corporate by-laws to prove the smoker is being a nuisance.

In Queensland, smoking is already banned in outdoor areas in shopping malls, outdoor areas and patrolled beaches.

Public feedback on the report is being accepted until January 30.