Smoking ban on Sarasota County property unenforceable

Sarasota County can't issue citations for smoking on Siesta Key public beach, or any other county-owned property.

Sarasota County Attorney Stephen DeMarsh Jan. 8, informed County commissioners the court decision regarding smoking in city of Sarasota parks prevents the county from banning smoking on outdoor public property.

The state restricts smoking within 1,000 feet of school property.

However, the judicial interpretation also prevents operators at Sarasota County Little League, and other youth sports league events from asking a person smoking to leave the facility, DeMarsh said.

"This is really disturbing to me," said Commissioner Joe Barbetta. "I can’t believe this is happening.”