Promoting Clean Air

Austria banned smoking in bars and restaurants on Friday, bringing the country’s laws into line with other European nations.

Previously, Austrians were able to light up while drinking and eating inside bars and restaurants larger than 50 square meter, and as long as it was in a separate area.

Violators will have to pay €1,000 ($1,115), and owners of establishments who allow patrons to smoke will be fined $2,000 rising to €10,000 for repeat offenders.

Austria has traditionally been more tolerant of smoking than other European countries, earning it a reputation as “the ashtray of Europe” among tobacco critics.

The debate about the ban has been ongoing for over 10 years, with the far-right Freedom Party—formerly led by a keen smoker—opposing the measure.

A quarter of Austrians smoke, compared with an average of 18 percent in other EU states.