Smokefree between the flags at patrolled beaches
Smoking is prohibited on all patrolled beaches in Western Australia
Smoking restrictions prohibit (ban) smoking between the flags or other markers on patrolled swimming beaches.
A patrolled swimming beach usually has:
- lifesavers and lifeguards on duty
- 2 red and yellow flags placed in the sand on the beachfront (the flags show it is safe to swim between the flags).
Does the smoking ban apply all time?
No, the smoking ban only applies while the flags are in place.
Signs
Local governments may display signs that advise smoking is now banned between the flags on patrolled beaches.
Who enforces the smoking ban on patrolled beaches?
Local governments are mainly responsible for enforcing matters about smoking at beaches and can appoint environmental health officers or additional officers, for example rangers, to assist with enforcement.
Find contact details for local government (external site).
Volunteer lifesavers cannot enforce these restrictions.
Public support
There has been a very high level of public support for this legislation from the Western Australian public.
Penalties
If you smoke between the flags the following penalties (fines) may apply:
- maximum court imposed penalty – $1000
- infringement notice – $200.
More information
Email the Tobacco Control Branch or phone 9222 4222.
Remember
- Smoking is banned between the flags on all patrolled swimming beaches in Western Australia.
- Local governments are mainly responsible for enforcing matters about smoking at beaches.
Last reviewed: 23-09-2022
Acknowledgements
Tobacco Control Branch
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