Smoke free zones: Cigarettes and vapes banned on some Perth streets

Some town centres in Perth will become smoke free zones from today, with cigarettes and vapes banned on several of the city's main streets.

Angove and Fitzgerald streets in North Perth, Scarborough Beach Road in Mt Hawthorn, Oxford Street in Leederville, and parts of William Street and Beaufort Street are included in the new no-smoking zones.

The City of Vincent Council voted its approval for the ban in July and it will take effect from today.

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Mayor Emma Cole said this meant the council had delivered its public health target of achieving smoke-free areas in town centres three years ahead of schedule.

"We have now reached this goal and I am excited to see residents and visitors enjoy fresh air, free from smoking and vaping in our entertainment precincts," she said.

"Vaping levels across the country are rising, especially among younger people, so the smoke-free areas will include no smoking and no vaping signage.

"We want to encourage people to quit, and young people not to start smoking and vaping. At the same time, it makes for much more inviting town centres, where we enjoy our alfresco dining and outdoor culture.

Penalties for flouting the rules will not be imposed for the first six months, after which fines of up to $200 will apply.

The Cancer Council in WA has voiced its approval for the ban.

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"Cancer Council WA congratulates the City of Vincent for leading the way with its Smoke Free Town Centres initiative," Cancer Council WA Make Smoking History Program manager Libby Jardine said.

"We hope that other local governments will be inspired to prioritise tobacco control and expand smoke-free public places for the benefit of their communities."

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