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Commission bans smoking and vaping in city‑owned parks and beaches
Summary
Ordinance O‑25‑13, enacted on second reading, prohibits smoking and vaping in public parks and public beaches owned or leased by the City of Winter Haven; city staff said enforcement will be coordinated between Parks & Recreation and Winter Haven Police Department and that unfiltered cigars are excepted by state statute.
The Winter Haven City Commission adopted Ordinance O‑25‑13 on second reading on March 19, prohibiting smoking and vaping in public parks and public beaches owned or leased by the city.
City staff cited Section 386.209 of the Florida Statutes as authorization for municipalities to restrict smoking within public parks and beaches. The staff report noted the Polk County Board of County Commissioners adopted a similar ordinance in November 2023 and recommended the city align its rules with county practice.
The ordinance bans use of tobacco products and vaping devices in city parks and city‑leased beaches, with limited exceptions required by state law; the staff memo specifically said the city cannot regulate unfiltered cigars. Parks & Recreation will produce signage, and enforcement will be handled through Parks & Recreation staff working with the Winter Haven Police Department.
City managers and the city attorney said the ordinance has no identifiable direct business impact; any indirect effect on tobacco sales was expected to be minimal. The commission adopted O‑25‑13 by voice vote; city staff said the ordinance takes effect immediately and implementation steps are underway.
