Smoking in cars legislation comes into effect

02 December 2016

Monday 5 December 2016 will see new legislation come into effect that will make it illegal to smoke in a car or other vehicle carrying those aged under 18 – an offense that will carry a fixed penalty of £100.

The new legislation has been introduced to Scotland to protect children and young people from the harm caused by second hand smoke, which can put them at risk from serious conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia and asthma.

Latest research shows that the toxic particles in second hand smoke can reach harmful concentrations within a minute of lighting a cigarette.

Fixed penalty notices can be served by Aberdeen City Council Environmental Health Officers, authorised officers in the Environmental Health Service, and also by Police Scotland.

Councillor Neil Cooney, convenor of Aberdeen City Council’s Communities, Housing and Infrastructure committee said: “this new law is not only about enforcement but also about education and raising awareness of the dangers of second hand smoke and to help people re-evaluate their smoking behaviour.

“Aberdeen City Council is committed to supporting the new legislation and our Environmental Health enforcement staff will be working with colleagues in Aberdeenshire and at Police Scotland to help protect children and young people from the dangers of second hand smoke.

“Every child deserves to breathe clean air and the new legislation will protect thousands of children”.

The Scotland-wide legislation will come into effect on Monday 5 December 2016 and will carry a £100 fixed penalty.

Information about the legislation can be found at www.protectyourkids.scot