Leaders in San Francisco are weighing a proposed ordinance that would prohibit smoking on outdoor bar patios and parklets throughout the city. The measure, introduced by Myrna Melgar and backed by local health professionals, would apply the same anti-smoking rules used for restaurants to bars and taverns. Supporters argue the policy is necessary to better protect patrons and workers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in outdoor social spaces. However, many bar and tavern owners strongly oppose the proposal, saying outdoor parklets were originally created in part to give customers a designated place to smoke while enjoying drinks. Business owners warn that banning smoking in those areas could drive customers away and negatively impact revenue, especially for neighborhood establishments that rely heavily on outdoor seating. A committee of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors is expected to debate the proposal next week.
