Iowa Smokefree Air Act

Lawmakers in the state of Iowa passed the Smokefree Air Act in 2008. The purpose of this act is to protect the public and employees from the exposure of tobacco smoke in constricted areas. Employers and owners of restaurants, entertainment venues (arenas, stadiums, amphitheaters, etc.) and bars should be aware of the regulations of this law to help prevent any legal complications and maintain their establishment in compliance.

Tobacco Use in Entertainment Venues

Smoking is prohibited in outdoor areas where people that are attending an event (live bands, festivals, etc.) are witnessing the performance.

Examples of prohibited areas:

• Outdoor seating
• Food serving areas inside or outside stadiums, festivals, etc.
• Platforms
• Athletic fields
• Tennis courts
• Basketball courts 

Tobacco Use in Restaurants

Restaurants are defined in the Iowa Smokefree Air Act (ISAA) as establishments where the public and guests are served food. Smoking is prohibited inside and outside of such establishment; if outside serving or seating areas are available. Seating areas are also defined as areas with benches, stools, chairs, etc.

Tobacco Use in Bars

There are no laws or regulations enforced in the ISAA that prohibit smoking in the outdoor areas of a bar (patios, decks, etc.) Indoor smoking remains prohibited for this type of establishment.