Transit – Frequently Asked Questions
Why are bus shelters and bus stops now smoke free?
Provincial tobacco laws have prohibited smoking in bus shelters, in transit vehicles, and within 3 metres of the bus since
2007. The Capital Regional District has now brought in Clean Air Bylaw No. 3962, which prohibits smoking within seven
metres of a bus shelter or bus stop.
Why can’t people smoke within 7 metres of a bus shelter or bus stop?
People gather at bus stops and shelters while waiting for the bus to arrive, and it is difficult for them to avoid exposure
to second hand smoke in these areas. There is no safe level of exposure to second hand smoke. Breathing second hand
smoke increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses. Children and people with
health conditions are especially vulnerable to the effects of second hand smoke. Many people think that second hand
smoke will dissipate without harmful exposure to those nearby. However, studies have found that the level of toxic
chemicals in cigarette smoke do not decrease to background levels until approximately 7 metres.
How will people know not to smoke within 7 metres of a bus stop or bus shelter?
BC Transit will place signs at the bus shelters stating that smoking is not permitted within 7 metres. Signs will not be
placed at all bus stops because of the vast number or bus stops and difficulty placing signs at these bus stops.
BC Transit will provide information to their riders through the BC Transit web site, Facebook and Twitter. The Victoria
Regional Transit Rider’s Guide will also contain information about smoking restrictions on buses, and at bus stops and
shelters.
Where can I go if I want to smoke while waiting for the bus?
Smoking is permitted outside the 7 metre buffer zone, provided it is not within 7 metres of a door, window, or air intake
of a public building.
What if I am walking by a bus stop, not waiting for a bus to come?
The buffer zone is applied to those individuals standing in the buffer zone and waiting for a bus to come. This buffer
zone would also be applied to someone wandering around the bus stop while waiting.
What do I do if I see someone smoking within 7 metres of the bus shelter or bus stop?
Politely inform them that a CRD bylaw forbids smoking within 7 metres of bus stops and shelters. If there is an ongoing
problem, you may contact VIHA Tobacco Prevention and Control program at 250-360-1450 or [email protected]
What about electronic cigarettes?
The new bylaw does not include electronic cigarettes, however BC Transit does not permit electronic cigarettes on
transit vehicles or property controlled by BC Transit.
What if I am walking by a bus stop, not waiting for a bus to come?
The buffer zone is applied to those individuals standing in the buffer zone and waiting for a bus to come. This buffer
zone would also be applied to someone wandering within the buffer zone around the bus stop while waiting.
For more information: www.crd.bc.ca or www.viha.ca/news
To contact an Island Health Tobacco Enforcement Officer: 250-360-1450 or [email protected]