The Watertown Common Council has passed a new ordinance aimed at promoting public health and creating a more enjoyable environment in community spaces. Effective April 15, 2025, updated regulations on smoking in public places have been enacted as part of Section 410-56(A) of the Watertown Municipal Code.
Under the new ordinance, smoking is now prohibited within 25 feet of designated public park and recreation areas, unless otherwise specified by a City agreement or a special event permit. The restricted areas include:
Playgrounds
Sports fields, courts, and complexes
Picnic areas
Disc golf courses
Swimming pools and water features
Enclosed, open-air, and temporary structures
Piers and kayak launches
Community gardens
Dog-walk areas
Heating and air conditioning intakes or vents
Stages, performance areas, and both permanent and temporary event seating
The ordinance defines "smoking" to include the use of traditional tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and any other lighted smoking equipment. It also applies to electronic smoking devices, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, and similar products that deliver nicotine or other inhaled substances through vapor or aerosol.
The measure is intended to reduce public exposure to secondhand smoke and support a cleaner, safer, and healthier community environment.
All residents and visitors are encouraged to observe these new regulations to help maintain the quality of our shared public spaces. The Watertown Police Department is tasked with enforcing these restrictions, which could involve a citation to Watertown's Municipal Court.
For more information about the ordinance or to view the full municipal code, visit the City of Watertown website at https://ecode360.com/WA3515. To view the full Watertown Municipal Code, visit the website at https://ecode360.com/WA3515
There, you can find the changes to the smoking ordinance under the "New Laws" section of ecode360, or here is a quick link: https://ecode360.com/WA3515/laws/LF2167557.pdf