Catskill adopts Local Law banning smoking, vaping and marijuana on village property

The Village of Catskill Board of Trustees on July 23 adopted Local Law #3 of 2025, declaring village buildings and lands "Tobacco and Marijuana Free Zones" and prohibiting smoking, vaping and other tobacco-product use on village property.

The law, read at a public hearing that opened and closed the same evening, defines terms such as "electronic cigarette," "other tobacco products," "marihuana" and "vaping," and requires signage at every entrance stating that "Vaping, Smoking of Tobacco and Marijuana, and the use Other Tobacco Products are prohibited." It sets a penalty of up to $250 per violation and authorizes removal from village property in addition to fines.

The ordinance specifies that enforcement may be carried out by the Village zoning administrator and building inspector and by any police agency having jurisdiction in Catskill, and it states the chapter will take effect immediately upon filing in the office of the New York State Secretary of State in accordance with Section 27 of the Municipal Home Rule Law.

Board members present voted unanimously to adopt the law. Officials said the change was intended to protect the health of village employees, residents and visitors by eliminating exposure on village-owned buildings, parks, recreation areas and playgrounds.

The law's text references New York State Public Health Law definitions and Penal Law language for "smoking" and cannabis terms; it also specifies signage and the international no-smoking symbol must be posted in village buildings and at entrances to village property.

The ordinance includes detailed definitions and an enforcement clause; the effective date is upon filing with state authorities, after which the village will begin installing required signage and communicating the new restrictions to the public.