Smoking no longer is allowed at Madison parks and recreation areas, and new signs will notify visitors of the ban.
Proponents of the law, approved Nov. 13 by the Borough Council, say it reduces litter from cigarette butts, sets a healthy example for children who play on the fields, and reduces exposure to second-hand smoke.
The law also bans electronic cigarette smoking, smoking within 30 feet of borough buildings, and areas adjacent to parks, including sidewalks and parking lots.
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Global Advisors on Smokefree Policy program manager Alan Kantz, a Drew University graduate, said he is excited Madison residents will experience smoke-free parks. Many other towns have implemented smoking bans and, after the new law is in place, "they are shocked that they lived any other way," he said.
Madison received free signs provided by the state Department of Health to install at parks.
