Contra Costa County supervisors have passed an ordinance that bans smoking in multi-unit housing complexes, according to the county clerk's office.

The new ordinance, approved in a 4-1 vote on Tuesday, will be adopted Oct. 12 and take effect Jan. 1. It prohibits smoking on all outdoor balconies, porches, decks, patios and carports of multi-unit residences that have four or more units.

It also makes it illegal to smoke in all dwellings in any new multi-unit residences that receive a permit after Jan. 1, and requires that non-smoking provisions be added to new leases and lease renewals.

The new ordinance strengthens the county's existing smoking restrictions, which bar smoking in enclosed places of employment, enclosed public spaces, service areas and within 20 feet of doors, windows, air ducts and ventilation systems of workplaces or enclosed public spaces.

The county's existing smoking laws also prohibit smoking in outdoor dining areas at bars and restaurants, outdoor lounges and outdoor dining areas at places of employment, public trails, public parks and at public events.

The new law will apply to multi-unit housing complexes in all unincorporated areas of the county.

Supervisor Mary Piepho was the only supervisor to vote against the new restrictions, according to the clerk's office.

— Bay City News Service

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