The City of Carlsbad has a state-required housing plan outlining how the city will promote the production of “decent housing and a suitable living environment” for people of all income levels. One of the programs in the plan is to consider a new city law that would protect people living in apartments and condos from exposure to smoking.

At a glance

The information below is intended to provide a summary of what is proposed. Please read the draft ordinance for full details.

• The proposed ordinance (city law) would ban smoking (including vaping) inside and outside apartments, condos and other multi-unit homes, except for certain designated outdoor spaces.
• If approved, the new rules would go into effect Jan. 1, 2025.
• The ordinance allows private enforcement, meaning landlords and other tenants may take legal action against violators.

What kinds of properties are included?
Property containing three or more residential units, including:

• Apartment buildings
• Condos
• Senior and assisted living facilities
• Long-term health care facilities
• Single family homes licensed as care facilities 

What is not included?
Multiunit residences do not include the following:

• Hotels and motels
• Mobile home parks
• Campgrounds
• Single family homes (including those with accessory dwelling units)

Where would smoking be banned?

• In units
• Private balconies
• Porches
• Decks
• Patios
• Common areas (except those designated as smoking areas).

Public input
The full text of the proposed ordinance banning smoking in multiunit residential housing in Carlsbad is available for public review. Please provide your feedback regarding the proposed smoking ban ordinance to Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development.

Email: mike.strong@carlsbadca.gov
Phone: 442-339-2721

Staff will present the proposed smoking ban ordinance during a public hearing at an upcoming City Council meeting. The item is tentatively scheduled for the meeting on Tuesday, June 11.

City Council meeting
Tentative: Tuesday, June 11, 2024, 5 p.m.
City Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive

The public is also welcome to provide input directly to the City Council at the meeting or via email to clerk@carlsbadca.gov.