Since summer 2025, the rules have changed: smoking on ski slopes, in ski lifts, or in queues is now prohibited and officially written into law.

📜 Which Law? Why This Ban?

• Decree No. 2025-582, published on 27 June 2025, extends the smoking ban to new outdoor areas, notably “uncovered areas of sports facilities.” This now includes ski resorts.
• According to the Ministry of Health, every affected area must be clearly marked as a “smoke-free zone” with visible signage to inform the public.

🎯 Areas Covered

The ban applies to:

• Ski slopes
• Ski lifts (chairlifts, cable cars, etc.)
• Queues leading to ski lifts
• Any uncovered areas of sports facilities, covering open outdoor spaces in ski resorts

However, the ban does not automatically apply to mountain restaurant terraces or covered areas, depending on the resort and previous practices adopted by some stations.

⚠️ Penalties for Breaking the Rules

This is more than just a guideline failing to comply can be costly:

• €135 fine for a first offence
• Up to €375 if the fine is increased
• In more serious cases (or for repeat offences), fines can reach €750 in court

Every ski resort must display clear “smoke-free” signage to alert visitors; lack of proper information can also be an issue.

🌱 Why This Decision? Health, Environment, Collective Respect

There are several reasons behind this ban:

• Protecting public health: Passive smoking in queues and lifts, often busy areas, affects everyone, including children and sensitive individuals.
• Reducing waste & protecting the environment: Cigarette butts are among the most common litter found in the mountains. Last year, a clean-up organised by the Mountain Riders association collected over 57,000 butts in ski resorts.
• Preserving fragile natural areas: A single cigarette butt can pollute hundreds of litres of water, and snowmelt spreads pollutants into the soil, rivers, and groundwater.
• Encouraging responsible tourism: For resorts, this is part of a move towards sustainability and appeals to environmentally conscious visitors.

✅ What This Means for You, Skiers, and Resorts

• No more cigarette breaks between runs: both regular skiers and occasional visitors need to adjust to this new habit.
• The mountains become cleaner and more comfortable fewer butts, less pollution, and a healthier atmosphere for all.
• For resorts, it is a step towards sustainable tourism and a more environmentally responsible image, a real marketing advantage, especially with younger generations.
• For parents, families, or anyone sensitive to passive smoking: ski resorts are now safer and more welcoming spaces.

📣 Message to Readers (and Skiers)

“When you breathe the fresh air of a snow-covered mountain, it’s not to mix it with smoke. Respecting the ban means respecting the mountain and everyone who shares it.”

If you’re heading to the slopes this winter, make sure to put your cigarettes away. And if you smoke, plan your break away from the pistes the mountain will thank you.