A summary of the amendments to the Tobacco Law, which was passed on 31st of August 2009. (Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act, No. 23 of 2007)

The new law bans smoking in partially enclosed areas of restaurants, pubs and bars – such as covered patios, verandas, balconies, walkways and parking areas – and could see owners being fined R50000 for breaching the laws. Changes in the law, with immediate effect, include: 1. An increase in the fines for smoking or allowing smoking in a non-smoking area. The fine for the owner of a restaurant, pub, bar and workplace is now a maximum of R50 000, and R500 for the individual smoker. 2. No smoking in "partially enclosed" public places, such as covered patios, verandas, balconies, walkways parking areas. 3. Smoking is not allowed in premises (including private homes) used for commercial childcare activities or for schooling or tutoring 4. Adults may not smoke in a car when a passenger under 12 years old is present. 5. Young children will be better protected from harm caused by second-hand smoke, like asthma, wheezing, or bronchitis.. 6. The sale of tobacco products to and by persons under the age of 18 is prohibited, as is the sale of confectionery or toys that resemble tobacco products 7. The tobacco industry can no longer hold "parties" or use "viral" marketing to target young people. In viral marketing, cigarette company representatives take cigarettes to clubs, coffee bars and campuses and invite teens to parties, concerts or a sport event where they are lured into smoking. 8.No person under 18 may be allowed into a designated smoking area. The practice of parents taking babies into smoking areas of restaurants is outlawed. 9. Cigarette vending machines must sell only tobacco products.