Milan has enforced an outdoor smoking ban across all public streets and open spaces to reduce air pollution and protect non-smokers, starting from January 1st, 2025. The regulation marks the strictest phase of the city’s Climate Air Plan, enacted as the Italian financial and fashion capital prepares to host the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Strict 10-Meter Distance Rule and Fines
Under the ordinance, individuals may only smoke outdoors in isolated spots while maintaining a minimum distance of 10 meters from other people. Local authorities are enforcing the measure across all public thoroughfares, with violators facing fines ranging from €40 to €240.
The status of outdoor restaurant and bar terraces remains under review based on whether they are classified as private or public-use areas. Electronic cigarettes, however, remain fully exempt from the current restrictions.
Air Pollution and Public Health Targets
Milan sits in the industrial Po Valley and regularly battles high levels of smog. Data from the Regional Environmental Protection Agency (ARPA Lombardia) shows that tobacco smoke generates approximately 7% of the city’s fine particle emissions.
This street-level ban builds on 2021 measures that prohibited smoking at transit stops, sports facilities, and children’s playgrounds. The initiative also mirrors European Commission recommendations that aim to reduce smoking rates across Europe to under 5% by 2040.
