Walnut Creek’s ordinance makes smoking illegal in all manors

Rossmoor residents cannot smoke tobacco or marijuana in or outside their coops, condos or townhomes due to the city of Walnut Creek secondhand smoke ordinance.

The law bans smoking in all multiunit residences, as well as their patios, balconies, carports and common areas; all of downtown Walnut Creek; all recreational areas and all commercially zoned properties where there are outdoor dining areas or outdoor service areas.

Smoking also is banned anyplace within 25 feet of entryways and operable windows and all public places in the city, including in Rossmoor.

Although the city smoking ban applies to “vaping,” the Walnut Creek City Council created an exemption for the vaporization of medical marijuana in multi-family housing, with a valid medical marijuana card.

Walnut Creek residents caught smoking in prohibited areas might have to pay fines, starting at $100 for the first infraction, $300 for the second and $500 thereafter. After that, the city attorney can bring a civil suit against the offender. To report violators, call 1-925-256-3535.