Clearwater, Florida Bans Vaping at Beach, Parks

The city of Clearwater in the U.S. state of Florida approved a ban on vaping and smoking on city-owned public parks and beaches.

The city council unanimously approved the new ordinance and it goes into effect immediately.

It includes combustible cigarettes, vapes and e-cigarettes, but does not include unfiltered cigars, according to WFLA.

City council members said the ultimate goal is to reduce the environmental impacts on the community.

The city said the ban would protect beachgoers and marine life.

This comes a year after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law that allows cities and counties to decide if they want to enforce a smoking ban.

The city of St. Petersburg has already implemented a similar smoking ban.