The Smoke Free Air Act (SFAA) protects the health of New York City workers against the harmful effects of second-hand smoke by banning smoking and the use of e-cigarettes in public spaces including common areas in multiple dwellings.

The Smoke Free Air Act prohibits smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes in indoor common areas of multiple dwellings with 3 or more units.

Indoor common areas include:

  • Hallways
  • Stairwells
  • Lobbies
  • Laundry rooms
  • Areas of the building used by the tenants or by the maintenance and building personnel

Smoking and electronic cigarette use is not prohibited in apartments and other private residences except in areas where child day care centers or health care facilities operate and are open or employees are working.

Learn more about smoking and tobacco control laws.

Owners of multiple dwellings with 3 or more dwelling units must post the following in all common indoor areas:

  • A "No Smoking" sign and a "No electronic cigarette use sign" OR
  • A single sign that says "no smoking or use of electronic cigarette."

Learn more about smoking and tobacco control laws.

The City does not provide waivers from the New York City Smoke Free Air Act. Waivers are available for the State law, the New York State Clean Indoor Air Act.

Online

Get answers to frequently asked questions about the NYC Smoke Free Air Act.

By Phone

Call 311 for assistance.