The new regulations governing designated smoking areas in hospitality venues across the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) entity officially came into effect on Friday. The rules, part of broader tobacco control measures, aim to balance the interests of business owners and public health by restricting smoking to specific areas that meet strict criteria.

For this reason, N1 spoke to Vedran Marcinko, Assistant Minister of Health for Legal Affairs and EU Integration, and Renata Lacevic, Project Coordinator at PROI to discuss the details and implications of the new regulations.

Marcinko outlined the primary rules: designated smoking areas must be equipped with proper ventilation and clearly marked signage indicating whether the space is for smokers or non-smokers. Examples include smoking rooms in hotels, designated areas in healthcare facilities for patients who smoke, and specific spaces in airports.

One challenge, Marcinko noted, was clarifying that the 50-square-meter limit applies only to areas where customers are served, such as seating areas. Spaces like restrooms, bars, and storage areas are excluded from this calculation.

Restrictions for minors and food service

Lacevic highlighted that minors are not permitted in any venues where smoking is allowed, even in spaces under 50 square meters that choose to permit smoking. Additionally, food cannot be served in such establishments.

She also emphasized that the new law bans all tobacco and new tobacco products on the market in Bosnia and Herzegovina, except for heat-not-burn products. Hookah bars are subject to the same rules as other bars and cannot be classified separately under hospitality laws.

Compliance questions

Both guests acknowledged receiving numerous inquiries from citizens and business owners. Lacevic cited an example involving schools, where questions arose about responsibility for smoking infractions. The law holds not only the individual but also the school principal accountable for enforcing no-smoking policies. Penalties apply to employees, principals, and school management, with varying levels of fines.

For hospitality venues, Lacevic addressed questions about service areas and so-called “enclosed gardens.” She clarified that enclosed outdoor spaces often designed by businesses do not meet the criteria for smoking areas. Such spaces can only account for 20% of the total area.

Workplace smoking ban

The discussion concluded with a reminder of the complete ban on smoking in the workplace. Both officials stressed the importance of adhering to these regulations to protect public health and avoid penalties.

With inspections set to begin, the transition marks a significant step toward reducing tobacco-related harm in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.