"Smoking Ban" In Force As Of May 19

ANKARA - Smoking will be banned in closed areas throughout Turkey under the provisions of Law to Prevent Dangers of Tobacco Products that will go into effect on May 19th.
According to a Prime Ministry notice clarifying the law, smoking will be banned closed areas like public buildings (including the corridors), education and health institutions, culture and sports areas and transportation vehicles.
According to the notice, closed areas, including tents and sunshades, with a roof will be a non-smoking area. All areas whose surrounding is partially covered will also be non-smoking zones.
Those who defy the ban will be subject to pay 50 YTL penalties and those who throw the package of the cigarette and cigarette ends will have to pay 20 YTL fine. (One dollar equals 1.25 YTL).
The ban will be valid in restaurants, coffeehouses and cafeterias as of July 19th, 2009.

(AY)