The City of Torrance's Environmental Quality and Energy Conservation Commission (TEQECC) is currently discussing an ordinance that would prohibit smoking in and around multi-unit residences. This proposed ordinance would amend the Torrance Municipal Code by adding Chapter 19 entitled, "Smoking in Multi-Family Dwellings" to Division 4. The main goal of this ordinance is to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of residents in Torrance by prohibiting smoking in and near multi-unit residences. If approved, the ordinance would require multi-unit residences to be smoke-free in specific areas:  ​

Indoor and Common Areas

Including halls, pathways, lobbies, stairwells, mail areas/rooms, community rooms, playgrounds, pools, laundry rooms, and parking lots

Individual Units

Including exclusive use balconies, porches, decks and patios

Buffer Zone of 25 feet

Around any doorway, window, opening or vent into a multi-unit residence.

The City has scheduled a series of virtual workshops to provide information about the proposed ordinance and gather feedback.

Virtual Workshop

• June 21st at 2:00 pm

In Person Workshop

• June 28th at 10 a.m. - West Annex Commission Room (3031 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503)
• June 28th at 1 p.m. - West Annex Commission Room (3031 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503)

Proposed Timeline:

• ​April 10, 2023 to July 6, 2023:  Public Outreach - UNDERWAY
• July 6, 2023:  TEQECC
• July 25, 2023:  City Council (1st Reading)
• August 8, 2023:  City Council (2nd Reading)
• September 8, 2023:  Effective Date, if approved

For further questions or to be added to the City's email list related to the proposed ordinance please contact:
Senior Administrative Analyst: Leslie Cortez at (310) 618-5990 or LCortez@TorranceCA.Gov