Ukrainians were proposed to be fined for smoking on the balcony: photos from neighbors as evidence of violation
The initiative to tighten smoking rules in apartment buildings did not find wide support among citizens. In Ukraine, it was proposed to legally ban smoking on private balconies, loggias, and near open apartment windows, as well as to introduce liability for discarding cigarette butts.
A petition calling on the Cabinet of Ministers to introduce a legislative ban on smoking on private balconies, loggias, and near open windows in apartment buildings failed to gather the required number of votes for consideration.
As of June 13, it was supported by only 111 citizens out of the required 25,000.
What changes were proposed
The author of the initiative proposed amendments to the legislation that would provide a complete ban on smoking tobacco products, using tobacco heating systems, and electronic cigarettes on balconies, loggias, and near open apartment windows in apartment buildings.
It was also proposed to establish liability for discarding cigarette butts from balconies and loggias.
What fines and control mechanisms were proposed
The author called for the development of an appropriate bill that would extend existing smoking restrictions to private balconies, loggias, and open apartment windows.
In addition, it was proposed to supplement the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses with provisions on liability for smoking in the specified places and for discarding cigarette butts.
There was also an idea to instruct the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine to develop a procedure for recording such violations. Among possible mechanisms considered was the collection of photo and video evidence from residents of buildings for the prompt holding of offenders accountable.
What justified the need for the ban
According to the author of the petition, the introduction of such changes would contribute to strengthening fire safety in the residential sector and protecting the rights of apartment building residents to a safe environment and clean air in their homes.
However, despite the stated arguments, the initiative did not receive sufficient public support and did not reach the threshold of votes required for its further consideration by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
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