In New Mexico, smoking is permitted in specific, designated locations, primarily those considered private or dedicated to tobacco use. Understanding these areas is essential for complying with state regulations.
Permitted Smoking Locations in New Mexico
While many indoor public spaces in New Mexico are designated as smoke-free, certain environments are explicitly exempted, allowing for smoking. These exceptions include:
- Private Residences: You are generally allowed to smoke within a private residence. However, this permission has an important condition: smoking is not permitted during business hours if the residence is being used commercially to provide child care, adult care, or any health care activities.
- Retail Tobacco Stores: Establishments that are primarily engaged in the retail sale of tobacco products are places where smoking is permitted.
- Cigar Bars: Venues specifically established as cigar bars are also allowed to permit smoking on their premises.
- Facilities of a Tobacco Manufacturing Company: Smoking is permitted within the facilities of a tobacco manufacturing company, provided that smoke does not infiltrate other... (The specific condition noted in regulations indicates that smoke must be contained within the facility and not spread beyond its designated boundaries).
Here is a summary of these permitted locations:
| Location | Specific Conditions/Notes |
|---|---|
| Private Residence | Permitted, except during business hours if the residence is used commercially for child care, adult care, or health care services. |
| Retail Tobacco Store | Permitted. These are businesses with a primary focus on selling tobacco products. |
| Cigar Bar | Permitted. These establishments are dedicated to the consumption of cigars. |
| Tobacco Manufacturing Facilities | Permitted, provided that smoke does not infiltrate other... (This condition implies that smoke must be contained within the facility to prevent its spread beyond the designated area). |
Always be aware that local ordinances might impose additional restrictions, even in locations generally permitted for smoking under state regulations.
