Colombia: Smoking & Vaping Banned in Building Common Areas
In Colombia, smoking is strictly prohibited in the common areas of residential buildings and complexes. According to Law 1335 of 2009, spaces such as hallways, lobbies, social rooms, elevators, reception areas, stairs, parking garages, and gyms must be maintained as 100% smoke-free environments. The Ministry of Health has also provided signage guidelines for these “smoke-free” spaces, which explicitly include a ban on aerosols from vapes (e-cigarettes).
So, what should you do if a neighbor is smoking or vaping in these common areas? The recommended first step is to inform the building’s administration or co-owners’ council so they can enforce the internal regulations. If the behavior persists, residents can contact the health authority or the police, as “smoking in prohibited places” is a behavior contrary to community coexistence and is punishable under the National Police Code.
While there is no general prohibition on smoking or vaping within a private apartment, issues can arise if the smoke or aerosol invades other units and affects neighbors’ health or quality of life. In such cases, the co-ownership can again apply internal regulations. Residents affected by drifting smoke also have the right to request support from the police or health authorities, as Law 1335 of 2009 recognizes the rights of non-smokers to be protected from secondhand smoke in collective-use areas.
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