It may be news to you. However, you can get a citation for smoking outside in NJ. And, no, not just for weed or anything else considered a controlled dangerous substance (CDS).
It goes without saying that smoking bans have been in effect for quite some time. Without question, you already know that you can’t smoke inside a building or restaurant. Meanwhile, a select number of places legally permit smoking indoors. According to NJSA 26:3D-57, these include cigar bars and lounges, as well as some shops selling tobacco products.
Those who absolutely can’t do without a cigarette while inside may have to take a ride down to Atlantic City. Casinos contain dedicated smoking areas. And, of course, you can stay in your own house if you want the luxury of weather-adaptable air conditioning or heat.
You can also smoke in your car if you simply must get your fix. And, despite its best efforts, the Legislature never did get a bill passed that prohibits smokers from smoking in automobiles when children are present. Therefore, you can take the kiddies with you if you need a quick legal break for a cigarette. (This is by no means intended to advocate for and/ or judge anyone who smokes with children in their vehicle.)
In case you are uncertain, vape pens and e-cigarettes, as well as smokeless tobacco products fall under laws banning smoking. As you might guess, cigars and pipes receive no special consideration.
Meanwhile, the idea that you can receive a citation for smoking outside may be foreign to you. In fact, you may only learn of it for the first time when a police officer writes you up for the offense.
Smoking Outside in NJ: Old Laws and New Ones
If you’re a smoker, it’s something you might already know. Smoking outdoors in some places was banned more than a decade ago. According to a section of New Jersey’s Administrative Code, smoking is prohibited on school grounds. This means both inside and outside K-12 schools. The ban applies to both public and non-public schools.
Additionally, New Jersey laws have long disallowed smoking in recreational facilities controlled by municipalities. This includes playgrounds and public swimming pools, such as Walter E. Ulrich Memorial Pool in Rahway River Park.
However, the new smoking ban actually rules out smoking outside in all parks and forests. Historic sites and governmental properties prohibit the use of all things smokable – whether you’re inside and out.
You also can’t light up while you stroll down the boardwalk. And, it doesn’t matter if you hit the shore in Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic or Cape May counties. New Jersey laws now make smoking illegal on beaches throughout the state.
Penalties for Smoking Outside in NJ
The good news that smoking outside in New Jersey doesn’t represent a criminal offense. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about a criminal record.
When it comes down to it, the smoking bans in outside areas aren’t just related to protecting others from secondhand exposure to smoke. There’s also the clean up involved with butts and paraphernalia left behind by cigarette and cigar users. Furthermore, smoking outside increases the risk of fire.
Contact Us
If you’re facing charges for any type of municipal court matter, the Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafajlo can assist you. Give us a call to discuss your situation and learn how our representation can help you.
Dan is a lawyer you want on your side, he was on point , always working on strategies on my case. btw we won our case!!! When it matters to you call him. Thanks Again Beninato & Matrafajlo
Raniero Stirpe
22:11 16 Jul 19
I had a work related incident on 11/2017. I immediately google reviewed a workers comp attorney. Beninato & Matrafajlo Law firm revealed extremely positive reviews. Without a hesitation I drove to their Elizabeth location seeking help. Attorney Andrew was very polite, courteous and resourceful with aiding my problems. Andrew assistant was just just as helpful. They kept me updated throughout the entire process via phone or email. The doctors they administered me to were pleasant as well. Even though the process took nearly 2yrs - Andrew was alongside for entire journey. On May 29, 2018 I finally went to court for work incident. Andrew prompt me on entire court process making me feel comfy and confident before speaking in front of judge. After the ordeal Beninato & Matrafajlo Law firm followed up making sure I was completely satisfied with everything. I wouldn’t of chosen anyone else! Thank You Andrew, his assistant & entire Law firm for the marvelous experience.
Kabir Portillo
23:41 05 Jul 19
Best Lawyer ever very professional flights to the very end To make sure his client is happy with the decision of a case
Jelsson Barba
01:44 28 Jun 19
Dan is the best lawyer I have ever met he did not give up he said he was going to help me and that's definitely what he did I am grateful to have him as my attorney and I will highly recommend him to anyone looking for help p.s and everyone that works at the office is extremely professional polites and very nice and I thank you as well keep up the great work
Albert Fuentes
10:54 20 May 19
Mr. Matrafajlo and his staff are both professional and kind. He went to court 5 times over 6+months fighting a traffic ticket that would of suspended my license and caused me thousands in fine and surcharges. It was dismissed with zero owed to the courts after proving DMV administrative discrepancies. Thank you so much for all your helpRenee
Renee Otoole
14:07 11 May 19
Mr. Matrafajlo and his staff are both professional and kind. He went to court 5 times over 6+months fighting a traffic ticket that would of suspended my...
First of all, I admired Dan for his understanding by putting himself on his clients shoes and fight for their best interest (outcome). For me, the definition of a great lawyer are those who "deliver" and he does.
Jay Licin
16:22 03 Apr 19
I am writing this review almost a decade after the fact......Mr. Matrafajlo is an excellent attorney. He did everything in his power to help me out. I would recommend him to anyone that was in need of an attorney.
Brian Bianco
23:24 01 Mar 19
The best of the best! I would definitely recommend Dan to my family and friends. Very professional and goes above and beyond to answer questions and to get the best results!
David Palucki
20:43 18 Jan 19
I got a 3 point ticket for doing an unsafe turn. I ended up hiring Matrafajlo. He seemed pretty confident he can get the ticket reduced to obstruction of...
I would definitely recommend Dan and his team to friends and family. The staff was very knowledgeable and helpful every time I reached out with questions. Dan and Teresa aka the Dream Team!! Everyone went above and beyond for little ‘ol me! Job well done!!
T Shipley
18:29 07 Nov 18
Dan really went above and beyond for my case . I was wrongfully accused of reckless driving . He could of just told me to take first plea deal and been done with it . Instead he suggested I refuse . The prosecutor in turn ran us around for months refusing to budge. Dan was sted fast in his support for me and never wavered. What started as a reckless driving which is a criminal offense ended as an unsafe driving ( 0 point offense). All thanks to Dan's hard work and perseverance
Cj Craddock
23:13 16 Sep 18
The best of the best, there's no other choice if you're looking for legal representation. Simply an incredible attorney. Helped me get out of a serious jam.
Jim Gilligan
22:51 08 May 18
Dan Matrafajlo was fantastic. From the moment I hired him he handled everything from scheduling my court date to representing me with my traffic ticket. Literally, all I had to do was show up to court. He put me at ease throughout the whole process and had my fine reduced dramatically!! I highly recommend him.
A J Sports
02:40 26 Apr 18
Dan Matrafajlo one the best attorneys ever I was completely satisfied and he has one of the best teams working for him .. I would and have recommended him .
Represented my mother when she had an accident, highly recommend him as an attorney
george gialamas
20:57 25 Mar 18
I don't know much about Beninato but I know a lot about Matrafajlo Danny Matrafajlo is very ambitious, smart, knowlegable, helpful lawyer I have ever know.Keep that way DannyHappy Thanksgiving to you and your family
Few months back, my husband had injured in a car accident. It seemed to be a small injury, but in fact it was brain injury and the truck who hit our car, ran away. We were so confused that how to survive and get compensation for brain injury. At that time, from my friend's reference, I got to know about Beninato & Matrafajlo Law, The firm handled our case very carefully and passionately, took the right steps for us and helped us in getting compensation. Thanks to Beninato & Matrafajlo Law!
Catelyn Martell
05:42 26 Jul 17
Dan is an outstanding lawyer he has handled personal injury cases for me for a couple of my friends he has handled matrimonial and Municipal Court tickets and everyone is happy with his services
Sove Alcequiez
20:05 23 Jul 17
I was referred to Dan Mantrafajlo by a dear friend of my that I respect greatly. This friend said that Dan was the type of lawyer that made the hard work she was putting into law school worth it...I found this to be very true. Professional, hard working, informed and willing to go above and beyond. This is a real review from a real client.
Damon O'Gara
08:12 20 Jul 17
Very professional. I highly recommend it to anybody.
Santiago Pelaez
01:46 12 Jul 17
Simply put he is the best! He was professional, prompt and always acted in my best interest. Couldn't have expected a better outcome.
Mr. Matrafajlo has represented me in a civil case where I was struck and injured by another vehicle.His professionalism and hard work truly made my experience seamless. There will be unpredictable measures that life throws at you, it always helps to have someone you trust by your side.I highly recommend Mr. Matrafajlo or anyone in this law firm to represent them if need be.-Zack
Dan Matrafajlo excellent lawyer. He solved my two previous cases. Individual approach, prompt actions, purposefully moving toward the success. Thank you Dan, yes you are the best of the best.
Dan is an excellent attorney. Unlike most attorneys Dan actually cares about your case. He went the extra mile and did countless hours of research to help me win my case. I'd give him 10 stars if I was able to.
rob cif
14:44 31 Mar 15
I starting using Dan after a VERY bad experience with a previous attorney who took advantage of our family. Dan is a great lawyer and very competent. While he specializes in personal injury, he and his office staff proved themselves on multiple occasions to be more then competent in other areas of the law. He's quick to respond and always makes us feel like our case is his top priority. I have since referred him to multiple people and their experience has been a positive one as well. His rates are reasonable and he has no desire to drag things out, file extension after extension etc. and rack up my bill as our previous attorney did. We highly recommend Dan Matrafajilo Esq., as does everyone I know who have used his services before.