Where can I get information on the law and what I need to do?
Watch Wigan Council's website for information on local dropp-in information sessions.
What are my options for my smoking customers and staff?
Your customers and staff must go outside to smoke.
Remember: This legislation applies even when your premises are closed.
You must put up the required 'No Smoking Signs' at the entrance and inside of the premises. Customers and staff could:
- Go outside to smoke only - no drink, seating, shelter etc
- You could arrange to provide facilities outside such as a canopy or shelter
Try and manage the situation to avoid problems outside in particular,
- Keep the noise down to avoid neighbour complaints
- Ensure that smokers stand outside your premises
- Provide external ash trays or bins for cigarette ends
- Sweep up any cigarette ends and any other smoking related litter
- Remember that in the alcohol free zones no drinks can be taken outside and suggest that customers do not leave drinks unattended inside.
What permissions do I need if I want to provide an outside smoking area?
- You may need planning permission and if there is advertising you may need advertising consent as well.
- You may also require consent from Environmental Services and Licensing
- Most smoking shelters should be exempt from building regulations providing any glazing is safety glass. Contact Building Control for details.
Where can I get information about NO SMOKING signs to put up in my premises?
The Smokefree England Information Line tel 0800 169 1697 open 8am - 6pm Monday to Friday. Businesses can register with them for guidance and updates. They will also assist business to obtain appropriate signage.
My premises has always been smoke free do I need signage?
Yes from 1 July 2007 all premises will need to display signage at every entrance.
What happens if I ignore the ban and let my customers or staff smoke?
Offences may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice being issued and in some cases prosecution. You may be putting your license at risk.
Some of my customers or staff tell me that they want to give up smoking, where can they get help?
Tel: 0500 7867 669 (0500 STOP NOW)
