France has introduced strict new regulations prohibiting smoking in beaches, parks, and other public areas, effective Sunday. The measures aim to shield children from the dangers of secondhand smoke, which officials say causes between 3,000 to 5,000 deaths annually in the country.

Published in the government gazette on Saturday, the ban extends to bus shelters and within a 10-meter (33-foot) radius of schools, libraries, and swimming pools—locations often frequented by minors. However, unlike neighboring Spain, which is set to enforce a broader ban, the new French rules do not apply to outdoor terraces of bars and restaurants. E-cigarettes are also exempt from the restrictions.

Violators could face fines ranging from €135 ($160) to €700, though authorities will initially allow a grace period for public awareness.

"Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children," said Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin. "A park, a beach, a school—these are places to play, learn, and breathe. Not for smoking." She described the move as a step toward France’s goal of a "tobacco-free generation" by 2032.

Despite the new measures, France remains one of Europe’s more tobacco-friendly nations, with over 30% of adults still smoking. Health officials are particularly concerned about the 15% smoking rate among 17-year-olds.

However, the French addiction monitoring agency (OFDT) reports that smoking is gradually declining, with current figures marking the lowest prevalence since 2000.

Tobacco-related illnesses kill more than 200 people daily in France—around 75,000 per year—Vautrin noted. The high smoking rate persists even as cigarette prices have surged to at least €12 ($14) per pack due to increased taxes.

Smoking has been prohibited in restaurants, bars, and public buildings for over a decade. A recent survey indicates that 62% of French citizens support banning smoking in public spaces, signaling growing public backing for stricter anti-tobacco measures.