Mono County Board of Supervisors Adopts Amendment Prohibiting Smoking in Multi-Unit Housing Outside of Mammoth Lakes

MONO COUNTY, Calif. (OCTOBER 23, 2024) – The Mono County Board of Supervisors has adopted a significant amendment to the County’s municipal code, specifically Chapter 7.92 - Smoking Policies and Restrictions, which now prohibits smoking in all multi-unit housing dwellings located within the unincorporated areas of Mono County.  This amendment is aimed at reducing exposure to secondhand smoke for residents, specifically in shared housing environments, where individuals may involuntarily be affected by smoke that travels through walls, ventilation systems, or shared outdoor areas.  The goal is to promote healthier living environments for all residents.

Secondhand smoke poses serious health risks to both adults and children.  Some of the primary dangers include:

• Increased risk of respiratory issues.
• Increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
• Increased risk of lung and other cancers.
• Complications and harmful effects on pregnant women and infants.

The ordinance applies to both tobacco and cannabis products and electronic smoking devices, including vaping products.  As defined by the ordinance, multi-unit residences include apartment buildings, condominiums, and other residential properties containing two or more units.

"This new ordinance is an important step in protecting the health of all residents, especially vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions," said Dr. Tom Boo, Mono County Health Officer.  "Secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard, and this action demonstrates our commitment to creating smoke-free, healthy communities."

The ordinance stipulates that smoking and vaping tobacco and cannabis is prohibited in all indoor areas of multi-unit residences, as well as in common areas such as lobbies, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces shared by residents.  It also requires smoking to occur at least 20 feet away from building entrances, windows, and ventilation systems to prevent secondhand smoke from drifting indoors.

Compliance and Enforcement

Property owners and landlords managing multi-unit properties with four or more units are required to post clear “No Smoking” signage in all common areas of multi-unit residences.  Property owners and landlords can contact Mono County Public Health for free signage and sample lease language.  Fines may be imposed upon residents who violate the order by smoking indoors.

Support for Smoking Cessation

For residents seeking help to quit smoking, Mono County Public Health encourages the use of free resources available through Kick It California, a statewide tobacco cessation program funded by the California Department of Public Health.  Kick It California offers a variety of tools to help individuals quit smoking or vaping, including:

• Personalized quit plans and progress tracking through the Kick It California app, available for download on both Android and iOS.
• Free nicotine patches for eligible participants.
• Access to trained Quit Coaches who provide one-on-one support over the phone and through online chat.

Residents can get started today by visiting kickitca.org or calling (800) 300-8086 (English) or (800) 600-8191 (Spanish). Text-based support is also available by texting “Quit Smoking” or “Quit Vaping” to 66819.  

Residents are also encouraged to consult with their primary care providers or pharmacists to explore additional medication help with smoking cessation.  Medicines which can help in quitting tobacco smoking include Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) such as patches, gums, or lozenges, and FDA-approved medications that can assist in managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

For more information, questions, or concerns, please call Mono County Public Health at (760) 924-1830. 

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