West Hollywood Adopts Outside Smoking Ordinance

On February 7, 2011 at City Council the Ordinance Amending the City of West Hollywood Municipal Code to Prohibit Smoking in Outdoor Dining and other Public Areas was adopted.

The Chamber, along with other members of Task Force from the business community were able to assist in finding compromises and supported these in the staff recommended draft with a few minor adjustments.

The Ordinance will follow similarly the Los Angeles ordinance where night clubs and bars remain exempt.

Businesses would be able (as they are currently allowed) to request a CUP adjustment, changing them from a restaurant to a nightclub or bar, if they wish to allow smoking are are able to meet the necessary requirements.

•         Our two private clubs – Soho House and The Foundation Room will be exempt.

•         The two Hookah cafes will be exempt.

•         Establishments may submit an operational plan for approval from the Community Development Director to create a smoking area with a 5-foot buffer as long as no food is served; and may also decide an area is for smoking after a certain hour, so long as no food is served.

You may download a copy of the ordinance is available – however last night e.2 was deleted.  http://www.weho.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=6733