Q: Can my boss require taking smoking breaks outside only or prohibit smoking on premises altogether?

A: Yes, employers in California can restrict smoking to outside-only policies or ban entirely within company buildings and vehicles to provide smoke-free workplaces exceeding the state laws. Some exceptions apply provided proprietary tobacco shops, long term care facilities, etc.

Q: Is hotel lobby smoking still allowed if the lobby sells food or alcohol?

A: No. California banned smoking in all hotel and motel common indoor areas including any lobbies, hallways, restaurants, bars or customer service areas. Only specifically designated "smoking rooms" maxing out at 50% of accommodations may permit in-room tobacco use. Signage must clearly identify smoking rooms.

Q: Can my apartment neighbors smoke on balconies and patios?

A: It depends. Within their units smokers can generally use attached balconies, patios, etc unless banned in the lease. But buildings can prohibit use within shared outdoor common areas via nuisance clauses. Several cities now also restrict smoking within a certain distances of windows and doors including units’ patios due to health concerns over shared air space.