Chapter 3701-52 | Smoking Prohibitions

Rule 3701-52-01 | Definitions.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) "Ashtray" means any receptacle that is used for disposing of smoking materials including ash, butts, and filters.

(B) "Club" as set forth in division (B)(13) of section 4301.01 of the Revised Code means a corporation or association of individuals organized in good faith for social, recreational, benevolent, charitable, fraternal, political, patriotic, or athletic purposes, which is the owner, lessor, or occupant of a permanent building or part of a permanent building operated solely for the purposes, membership in which entails the prepayment of regular dues, and includes the place so operated.

(C) "Department" means the Ohio department of health or its authorized designee, unless otherwise specified.

(D) "Directly or indirectly under the control" means the ability to exercise authority over an area based upon property rights set forth under a real estate lease, title, or deed.

(E) "Director" means the director of health or the director's authorized representative.

(F) "Electronic smoking device" means any device that can be used to deliver aerosolized or vaporized nicotine or any other substance to the person inhaling from the device including an electronic cigarette, electronic cigar, electronic hookah, vaping pen, or electronic pipe. "Electronic smoking device" includes any component, part, or accessory of such a device, whether or not sold separately, and includes any substance intended to be aerosolized or vaporized during the use of the device. "Electronic smoking device" does not include any product that is a drug, device, or combination product, as those terms are defined or described in 21 U.S.C. 321 and 353(g).

(G) "Employee" means a person who is employed by an employer, or who contracts with an employer or third person to perform services for an employer, or who otherwise performs services for an employer for compensation or for no compensation.

(H) "Employer" means the state or any individual, business, association, political subdivision, or other public or private entity, including a nonprofit entity, that employs or contracts for or accepts the provision of services from one or more employees.

(I) "Enclosed area" means an area with a roof or other overhead covering of any kind and walls or side coverings of any kind, regardless of the presence of openings for ingress and egress, on all sides or on all sides but one. For purposes of this chapter, a "roof or other overhead covering" includes any structure or arrangement above and area, including an outdoor patio, including substantial coverage by umbrellas or awnings, that may impede the flow of air into the area , regardless of the type or nature of roof or other overhead covering. A roof or other overhead covering does not include materials provided by a proprietor to ensure security in a confined residential setting on an outdoor patio that is otherwise open to the air.

(J) "Enter" as used in paragraph (B) of rule 3701-52-02 of the Administrative Code means any physical movement of tobacco smoke or vapor into any area in which smoking is prohibited under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code through entrances, windows, ventilation systems, or other means.

(K) "Entrance" means a doorway through which pedestrians, including the public or employees, enter a public place or place of employment. Entrance does not mean doorways through which vehicles pass or through which the loading or unloading of materials including but not limited to cargo or goods takes place.

(L) "Hotel or motel" for the purposes of the exemption in division (B) of section 3794.03 of the Revised Code has the same meaning as set forth in section 3731.01 of the Revised Code.

(M) "Migrate" or "migration" means the transit or movement of tobacco smoke from one place to another, regardless of cause, including the movement of tobacco smoke induced or caused by changes in air flow.

(N) "Outdoor patio" as defined in division (I) of section 3794.01 of the Revised Code, means an area that is either: enclosed by a roof or other overhead covering and walls or side coverings on not more than two sides; or has no roof or other overhead covering regardless of the number of walls or other side coverings.

(O) "Place of employment" means an enclosed area under the direct or indirect control of an employer that the employer's employees use for work or any other purpose, including offices, meeting rooms, sales, production and storage areas, restrooms, stairways, hallways, warehouses, garages, and vehicles. An enclosed area as described herein is a place of employment without regard to the time of day or the presence of employees.

(P) "Private residence" means a dwelling or area of a dwelling used as an individual's private residence where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, including employer-provided housing. "Private residence" does not mean a dwelling or area of a dwelling used as an individual's residence during the hours in which the dwelling or area of the dwelling is operated as a childcare facility for compensation, as described in paragraph (B) of rule 3701-52-04 of the Administrative Code.

(Q) "Proprietor" means an employer, owner, manager, operator, liquor permit holder, or person in charge or control of a public place or place of employment.

(R) "Public place" means an enclosed area to which the public is invited or in which the public is permitted and that is not a private residence.

(S) "Retail tobacco store" means a retail establishment that derives more than eighty per cent of its gross revenue from the sale of lighted or heated tobacco products and related smoking accessories and in which the sale of other products is merely incidental. "Retail tobacco store" does not include a tobacco department or section of a larger commercial establishment or of any establishment with a liquor permit or of any restaurant.

(T) "Retail vapor store" means a retail establishment that derives more than eighty per cent of its gross revenue from the sale of vapor products, electronic smoking devices, or other electronic smoking product accessories and for which the sale of other products is merely incidental. "Retail vapor store" does not include a section of a larger commercial establishment or of an establishment with a liquor license or that is a restaurant.

(U) "Smoking" means inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated tobacco product or any plant product intended for inhalation in any manner or in any form. Smoking includes the use of an electronic smoking device and a vapor product. "Smoking" does not include the burning of incense in a religious ceremony.

(V) "Smoking device" means any lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe or other device designed for burning tobacco or any plant for the purposes of inhaling smoke. Smoking device does not mean devices designed and primarily used for the burning of any plant for cooking, heating, or illumination purpose.

(W) "Tobacco product" means any product that is made or derived from tobacco or that contains any form of nicotine, if it is intended for human consumption or is likely to be consumed, whether smoked, heated, chewed, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled, or ingested by any other means, including, but not limited to, a cigarette, an electronic smoking device, a cigar, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, or snus. "Tobacco product" also means any component or accessory used in the consumption of a tobacco product, such as filters, rolling papers, pipes, blunt or hemp wraps, and liquid used in electronic smoking devices whether or not they contain nicotine. "Tobacco product" does not include any product that is a drug, device, or combination product, as those terms are defined or described in 21 U.S.C. 321 and 353(g).

(X) "Vapor product" means a product, other than a cigarette or other tobacco product as defined in Chapter 5743. of the Revised Code, that contains or is made or derived from nicotine and that is intended and marketed for human consumption, including by smoking, inhaling, snorting, or sniffing. "Vapor product" includes any component, part, or additive that is intended for use in an electronic smoking device, a mechanical heating element, battery, or electronic circuit and is used to deliver the product. "Vapor product" does not include any product that is a drug, device, or combination product, as those terms are defined or described in 21 U.S.C. 321 and 353(g). "Vapor product" includes any product containing nicotine, regardless of concentration.

(Y) "Vehicle" means any of the following:

(1) An enclosed motor vehicle registered by the Ohio bureau of motor vehicles while used for business purposes when it is occupied by one or more non-smoking persons;

(2) A motor vehicle registered by the Ohio bureau of motor vehicles that is part of a business motor pool and shared by non-smoking employees;

(3) A motor vehicle registered by the Ohio bureau of motor vehicles that is part of a business motor pool and shared by non-smoking employees;

(4) Tourist or scenic railcars operated exclusively in Ohio.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:26 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.01
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028

Rule 3701-52-02 | Responsibilities of proprietor.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Except as permitted in section 3794.03 of the Revised Code, no proprietor will permit smoking in the public place or place of employment or in the areas directly or indirectly under the control of the proprietor immediately adjacent to locations of ingress or egress to the public place or place of employment.

(B) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (A) of this rule, a proprietor will take reasonable steps including requesting individuals to cease smoking, to ensure that tobacco smoke, in an area directly or indirectly under the control of the proprietor, does not enter any area in which smoking is prohibited under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter through entrances, windows, ventilation systems, or other means.

(C) For a public place or place of employment that includes an "outdoor patio" as defined in paragraph (N) of rule 3701-52-01 of the Administrative Code, the "outdoor patio":

(1) May be located immediately adjacent to locations of ingress or egress to the public place or place of employment, but will be physically separated from any enclosed area. Notwithstanding rule 3701-52-04 of the Administrative Code, a proprietor will comply with divisions (A) and (B) of section 3794.02 of the Revised Code and paragraphs (A) and (B) of rule 3701-52-02 of the Administrative Code;

(2) When smoking is permitted, the outdoor patio will be open to the air. For the purpose of this chapter, "open to the air" means the patio has thorough, unobstructed circulation of outside air to all parts of the outdoor patio.

(a) An outdoor patio will be presumed to be open to the air when not more than fifty per cent of the combined surface area of an outdoor patio's sides is covered by walls or side coverings. For purposes of division (F) of section 3794.03 of the Revised Code, in accordance with division (I) of section 3794.01 of the Revised Code, "walls or side coverings" means barrier or obstruction, permanent or temporary, that divides or encloses an area; and

(b) An outdoor patio that has a structure capable of being enclosed, regardless of the materials or removable nature of the walls or side coverings, will be regarded as an enclosed area when the walls or coverings are in place and smoking will not be permitted.

(D) A proprietor will not be deemed in violation of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter if any smoke inadvertently enters the public place or place of employment, including entry through entrances, windows, ventilation systems, or other means, from an area that is not under the proprietor's direct or indirect control.

(E) A proprietor will post "No Smoking" signs or the international "No Smoking" symbol in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and rule 3701-52-07 of the Administrative Code.

(F) A proprietor will identify himself or herself upon the request of the department.

(G) A proprietor will remove ashtrays and other receptacles used for disposing of smoking materials pursuant to Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter. If ashtrays and other receptacles used for disposing of smoking materials are of historic or architectural value and were affixed to real property prior to December 7, 2006, such ashtrays and other receptacles may remain if they are not used for disposal of smoking materials. Division (B) of section 3794.06 of the Revised Code and this rule will not apply to ashtrays and other receptacles that are part of a vehicle if they are not used for the disposal of smoking materials.

(1) A proprietor may provide ashtrays and other receptacles used for disposing of smoking materials in areas where smoking is not prohibited under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter.

(2) A proprietor may provide ashtrays and other receptacles used for disposing of smoking materials solely for the purpose of disposing smoking materials prior to entering a place of employment or public place.

(3) A proprietor may store empty and clean ashtrays and other receptacles used for disposing of smoking materials in a location within an area where smoking is prohibited if the:

(a) Location has no public access;

(b) Location is used primarily for storage purposes;

(c) Location is not in an area where food or beverages are prepared or dispensed; and

(d) Ashtrays or other receptacles are used in accordance with paragraphs (G)(1) and (G)(2) of this rule.

(H) A proprietor, during hours of operation and at times when the the public place or place of employment is occupied by the owner, proprietor, or any employee, will, upon request, provide the department or its authorized designee with immediate access to the following:

(1) The premises;

(2) All parts of the facilities and premises therein;

(3) Staff; and

(4) Pertinent records upon request.

(I) A proprietor's failure to allow access to facilities, staff, and records in accordance with paragraph (H) of this rule, may result in the imposition of civil penalties and fines in accordance with paragraphs (A) and (F) of rule 3701-52-10 of the Administrative Code.

(J) No person will discharge, refuse to hire, or in any manner retaliate against any individual for exercising any right, including reporting a violation, or performing any obligation under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:27 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.02; 3794.03; 3794.06
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 5/3/2007

Rule 3701-52-03 | Responsibilities of individual.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) No person will refuse to immediately discontinue smoking in a public place, place of employment, or the areas directly or indirectly under the control of a proprietor thereof, or in an establishment, facility, or outdoor area declared nonsmoking under section 3794.05 of the Revised Code when requested to do so by the proprietor, owner, manager, operator, or other person in charge or control of the public place, place of employment or establishment, facility, or outdoor area, or by one of their employees.

(B) No person will retaliate in any manner against any individual for exercising any right, including reporting a violation, or performing any obligation under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:27 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.02; 3794.03
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 5/3/2007

Rule 3701-52-04 | Areas where smoking is not regulated.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) All areas set forth in section 3794.03 of the Revised Code are exempt from the provisions of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter.

(B) A private residence, except during the hours of operation as a child care facility for compensation, is not subject to Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter:

(1) During the hours of operation as a business by a person other than a person residing in the private residence, or during the hours of operation as a business, when employees of the business, who are not residents of the private residence or are not related to the owner, are present; or

(2) In which an individual is employed only on an intermittent basis. This includes, but is not limited to, situations where individuals perform services for the owner of the residence or individuals residing in the residence such as those services performed by plumbers, electricians, remodelers, and housekeepers.

(C) A family owned place of employment, in which contractors or third parties not under the direction and control of the family owned place of employment are intermittently present, is not subject to Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter.

(D) A private residence or portion of a private residence that is licensed or certified by the state or federal government to provide overnight accommodations and supervision or personal care services to unrelated individuals is not subject to Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter. Notwithstanding this paragraph, smoking may be prohibited by other applicable laws or rules.

(E) Only to the extent necessary to comply with division (A)(18) of section 3721.13 of the Revised Code, an institution, residence or facility that provides for a period of more than twenty-four hours, whether for profit or not, accommodations to three or more unrelated individuals who are dependent upon the services of others, is not subject to Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter. This includes:

(1) A nursing home as defined in section 3721.01 of the Revised Code;

(2) A residential care facility as defined in section 3721.01 of the Revised Code;

(3) The Ohio veteran's home;

(4) Any facility or part of a facility that is defined as a skilled nursing facility under Title XVIII of the "Social Security Act" 79 Stat. 286 (1965). 42 U.S.C.A. 1395 and 1396;

(5) Any facility defined as a nursing facility as defined in section 5165.01 of the Revised Code; or

(6) A county home or district home operated pursuant to Chapter 5155. of the Revised Code

(F) In accordance with section 3794. of the Revised Code, rule 3701-17-20 of the Administrative Code, and paragraph (E) of this rule: A designated indoor smoking area, that is separately enclosed and separately ventilated, may be provided for the exclusive use of residents during specific times when the indoor area may be used for smoking. No employees will be required to accompany a resident into a designated indoor smoking area or perform services in such an area when being used for smoking, unless they have volunteered to do so.

(G) If portions of an institution, residence, or facility are private residences, such as apartments, those private residential portions are governed by rules in this chapter applicable to private residences, unless otherwise prohibited by applicable laws or rules.

(H) Outdoor smoking by residents of institutions, residences or facilities specified in paragraph (E) of this rule is permitted to the extent necessary to comply with division (A)(18) of section 3721.13 of the Revised Code.

(I) Outdoor patios, as defined in paragraph (N) of rule 3701-52-01 of the Administrative Code and meet the requirements of paragraph (C) of rule 3701-52-02 of the Administrative Code, that are open to the air.

(J) An enclosed space in a laboratory facility at an accredited college or university, when used solely and exclusively for clinical research activities by a person, organization, or other entity conducting institutional review board-approved scientific or medical research related to the health effects of smoking or the use of tobacco products. The enclosed space will not be open to the public and will be designed to minimize exposure of nonsmokers to smoke. The program administrator will annually file a notice of new research with the department of health on a form prescribed by the department.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:27 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.03
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 5/3/2007, 7/25/2013, 7/16/2018

Rule 3701-52-05 | Exemption of retail tobacco stores.

• Effective: February 1, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) For the purpose of this rule, the exemption year is from April first of the year in which the affidavit is submitted, to March thirty-first of the following year.

(B) Retail tobacco stores as defined in section 3794.01 of the Revised Code may be granted an exemption from regulation under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter provided that each retail tobacco store requesting the exemption meets the following:

(1) The retail tobacco store is in a freestanding structure occupied solely by the retail tobacco store;

(2) Smoke from the retail tobacco store does not migrate into any enclosed area where smoking is prohibited under the provisions of chapter 3794. of the Revised Code;

(3) The retail tobacco store will annually file with the Ohio department of health an affidavit stating the percentage of its gross revenue during the prior calendar year that was derived from the sale of lighted or heated tobacco products and related smoking accessories;

(4) Upon request of the Ohio department of health, the retail tobacco store will provide additional information to assist the department in the determination of whether the exemption is properly applicable to a retail tobacco store. Additional information requested may include, but is not limited to, documentation of non-tobacco related product sales, change of ownership, or business incorporation records; and

(5) The affidavit for each exemption year, will be postmarked by January thirty-first of the year in which the affidavit is submitted and will be mailed to the following address:

"ATTN: Smoke-Free Workplace Program

Ohio Department of Health

246 North High Street

Columbus, OH 43215"

(C) Retail tobacco stores as defined in section 3794.01 of the Revised Code and in operation prior to December 7, 2006, may be grandfathered for the freestanding requirement of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code. To be eligible for exemption, the retail tobacco store is obligated to:

(1) Provide acceptable evidence to Ohio department of health of grandfather eligibility; and

(2) Comply with paragraphs (B)(3) to (B)(5) of this rule.

(D) Retail tobacco stores that submit an affidavit for exemption that is not postmarked by January thirty-first of the year in which the affidavit is submitted, will submit a fine in the amount of one hundred fifty dollars in the form of a cashier's check, a postal money order, or an online payment payable to the "Treasurer, State of Ohio specified for retail tobacco store exemption. If granted, exemption will only be for the remainder of the current exemption year.

(E) Retail tobacco stores that do not provide documentation annually that the business derives more than eighty per cent per cent of its gross revenue from the sale of lighted or heated tobacco products and related smoking accessories will not be granted an exemption.

(F) Previously exempted retail tobacco stores that fail to file for an exemption by January thirty-first annually, will be subject to all smoke free workplace regulations and penalties for violations until such time as the retail tobacco store comes into compliance with Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter.

(G) Within sixty days after receiving an affidavit and any additional information requested, the Ohio department of health will provide each retail tobacco store that meets the requirements of this rule with documentation of the retail tobacco store, location, and time period that the retail tobacco store is exempt from regulation under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code. The documentation of exemption will be posted in a conspicuous place within the retail tobacco store where it can be seen by customers.

Last updated February 1, 2024 at 8:10 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.03
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 5/3/2007, 7/16/2018

Rule 3701-52-06 | Exemption of retail vapor stores.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) For the purpose of this rule, the exemption year is from April first of the year in which the affidavit is submitted, to March thirty-first of the following year. The affidavits approved by the director for use in requesting an exemption under this rule are available online in the smoke-free workplace section of the Ohio department of health website at odh.ohio.gov.

(B) Retail vapor stores, as defined in division (I) of section 3794.01 of the Revised Code, may be exempt from regulation under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter provided that each retail vapor store claiming the exemption meets the following:

(1) The retail vapor store will annually file with the Ohio department of health an affidavit stating the percentage of its gross revenue during the prior calendar year that was derived from the sale of vapor products, electronic smoking devices, or other electronic smoking product accessories;

(2) Upon request of the Ohio department of health, the retail vapor store will provide additional information to assist the department in the determination of whether the exemption is properly applicable to a retail vapor store. Additional information requested may include, but is not limited to, documentation of non-vapor related product sales or change of ownership; and

(3) The affidavit for each exemption year, will be postmarked by January thirty-first of the year in which the affidavit is submitted and will be mailed to the following address:

"ATTN: Smoke-Free Workplace Program

Ohio Department of Health

246 North High Street

Columbus, OH 43215"

(C) Retail vapor stores that submit an affidavit for exemption that is not postmarked by January thirty-first or submit an affidavit to the department outside of the standard filing period of January each year, will submit a penalty fee with the affidavit in the amount of one hundred fifty dollars payable to the "Treasurer, State of Ohio."

(D) A retail vapor stores that does not provide documentation annually that the business derives more than eighty percent per cent of its gross revenue from the of sale of vapor products, electronic smoking devices, or other electronic smoking product accessories will not be granted an exemption.

(E) Previously exempted retail vapor stores that fail to file for an exemption by January thirty-first annually, will be subject to all smoke free workplace regulations and penalties for violations until such time as the retail vapor store comes into compliance with Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter.

(F) Within sixty days after receiving an affidavit and any additional requested information, the Ohio department of health will provide each retail vapor store that meets the requirements of this rule with documentation that the retail vapor store is exempt from regulation under Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code. The documentation is to be posted in a conspicuous place within the retail vapor store where it can be seen by customers.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:27 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.03
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028

Rule 3701-52-07 | Posting of signs; designation as nonsmoking place.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) In accordance with section 3794.06 of the Revised Code, "No Smoking" signs or the international "No Smoking" symbol (consisting of a pictorial representation of a burning cigarette enclosed in a red circle with a red bar across it) will be conspicuously posted, by either affixing to real property or posting by other means, in every public place and place of employment where smoking is not allowed by Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter, including at each entrance to the public place or place of employment. All signs required by section 3794.06 of the Revised Code and this rule will contain the telephone number 1-866-559-OHIO (6446) for reporting violations and may also contain a designee's telephone number for reporting violations.

(1) Signs will be of sufficient size to be clearly legible to a person of normal vision throughout the areas they are intended to mark.

(2) Signs posted in public places and places of employment will be posted at a height and location easily seen by a person entering the public place or place of employment.

(3) Signs posted in vehicles will be firmly affixed to the vehicle dashboard, or firmly affixed to each passenger door window, or firmly affixed to other areas visible to all passengers.

(B) Unless otherwise specified in this chapter, signs will be posted at all pedestrian points of transition from areas where smoking is not regulated by Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter to all areas that are regulated. Nothing in this rule will prohibit public places and places of employment from posting signs in addition to those required to comply with Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this rule.

(C) The owner, manager, operator, or other person in charge or control of an establishment, facility, or outdoor area which does not otherwise qualify as a public place or place of employment regulated by Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code, may voluntarily declare such establishment, facility, or outdoor area as a nonsmoking place by conspicuously posting "No Smoking" signs that conform with the requirements of section 3794.06 of the Revised Code and this rule. Smoking will not be allowed in any place declared nonsmoking under section 3794.05 of the Revised Code and this rule where a sign conforming to the requirements of division (A) of section 3794.06 of the Revised Code and this rule is posted.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:28 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.05; 3794.06
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 5/3/2007

Rule 3701-52-08 | Designation of authority.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) As used in this rule, "board of health" means the board of health of a city or general health district, or the authority having the duties of a board of health in any city as authorized by section 3709.05 of the Revised Code.

(B) Pursuant to section 3794.07 of the Revised Code, the director of health designates the boards of health to enforce the provisions of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter.

(C) Pursuant to section 3794.07 of the Revised Code, the director of health may alternatively designate an agency or instrumentality of the state, county, or municipal or township authority, not otherwise designated in paragraph (B) of this rule, as the department of health's designee to enforce the provisions of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter if the agency or instrumentality meets the following criteria:

(1) Submits a letter to the director of health requesting it be designated as an enforcement agent of the Ohio department of health in a specific locality or jurisdiction;

(2) The letter will indicate a commitment and capacity to do all of the enforcement duties set forth in Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code, this chapter, and as assigned by the director; and,

(3) The letter will indicate a commitment to provide the necessary resources and personnel to fulfill its designation.

(D) All designees of the Ohio department of health will do all of the following:

(1) Maintain and make available to the director of health all records relating to work performed pursuant to this designation and supporting documentation according to program retention policy. If an audit, litigation, or other action related to the delegation of authority is initiated during this time period the designee will retain such records until the action is concluded and all issues are resolved. Upon termination of designation, a jurisdiction will transfer all original "Smoke Free Workplace Law" documentation to the Ohio department of health;

(2) Fulfill the requirements of divisions (A) and (B) of section 3794.09 of the Revised Code.

(3) Cooperate with the Ohio department of health through the provision of documents and assistance during any appeal of a violation or civil fine issued by the designee.

(4) Participate with the Ohio department of health in fulfilling the requirements of divisions (E) and (F) of section 3794.07 of the Revised Code including providing current contact information and areas served on the Ohio department of health's education website.

(E) The director of health will not designate more than one designee to enforce the provisions of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter in any specifically defined jurisdiction. The Ohio department of health will maintain a list of all current designees and the jurisdiction served by those designees on its website.

(F) Subject to the approval of the director of health, a designee may enter into an agreement with a third party to perform specified duties in support of the designee's enforcement of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter. All agreements entered into pursuant to this paragraph will provide compensation based on a negotiated hourly rate and compensation will not be based on the number of violations found by the third party performing the work. Notwithstanding this paragraph, a designee will remain responsible for the investigation and enforcement of all complaints of alleged violations within its defined jurisdiction.

(G) All penalties assessed and invoiced by the department pursuant to this rule will be deposited in the fund in the state treasury created pursuant to section 3794.08 of the Revised Code within thirty days of collecting such penalties in the manner prescribed by the director. Within forty-five days of the close of each quarter, ninety per cent of any penalties received by the Ohio department of health in that quarter will be paid to the designee who brought the enforcement action and will be used for the purposes of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and the rules adopted under it.

(H) Either the director of health or a designee may terminate the designation with thirty days written notice served upon the other party or immediately, if mutually agreed. In the event a designee fails to fulfill the obligations set forth in this rule, the director may, at the director's option, immediately terminate the designation.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:28 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.01; 3794.03
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 7/25/2013

Rule 3701-52-09 | Reports of violations; investigation; findings of violations; appeals.

• Effective: February 1, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Reports of violations of the provisions of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter may be submitted to the department by any member of the public by mail, electronic mail, online, and telephone. A person does not have to disclose his or her identity in order to report a violation. An anonymous complaint, alone, will not be sufficient evidence to support a finding of violation of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or this chapter.

(1) If by mail, reports of violations may be directed to the Ohio department of health at the following address:

"Attention: Smoke Free Workplace Program

Ohio Department of Health

246 North High Street

Columbus, Ohio 43215"

(2) If by electronic mail, reports of violations may be sent to the Ohio department of health at: [e-mail].

(3) Online reports of violations may be entered into the Ohio department of health database application at: [e-mail].

(4) If by telephone, reports of violations may be reported to 1-866-559-OHIO (6446) or the telephone number of a designee.

(5) A designee may receive reports of violation by mail, electronic mail, or telephone.

(B) The report of violation will contain at least the following information:

(1) Nature of the violation including date and approximate time;

(2) Name of the business or individual alleged to be in violation; and

(3) Complete address with zip code, if known.

(C) Reports of violations alleging facts that, when construed broadly and accepted as true, would not support a finding of violation will be dismissed without any investigation. The department may decline to investigate, and may dismiss, any report of violation the department determines is:

(1) Frivolous; or

(2) Not made in good faith.

(D) Except as provided in paragraph (C) of this rule, upon receipt of a complete report of violation, the department will provide a proprietor or individual with written notice of the report of violation, a copy of the report of violation, and the opportunity to provide the department with a written statement or evidence to contest the report.

(1) If a proprietor or individual submits a written statement or presents evidence to contest a report of violation, such submittal will be postmarked within thirty days after receipt of the report of violation by the proprietor or individual and will be sent to the return address provided on the notice of report of violation.

(2) The Ohio department of health may, in its discretion, investigate a complete report of violation or promptly transmit the report of violation to a designee in the jurisdiction where the reported violation allegedly occurred for investigation and enforcement. If the report of violation is transmitted to a designee, the designee will investigate all complete reports of violation. For the purposes of this chapter, an investigation may include but is not limited to:

(a) A review of report of violation;

(b) A review of any written statement or evidence contesting the report of violation;

(c) Telephone or on-site interview; or

(d) On-site investigations.

(3) Prior to issuing a proposed civil fine for a violation of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter, the department's investigation will include all investigation activities set forth in paragraphs (D)(2)(a) to (D)(2)(d) of this rule.

(E) All findings of violation by the department, including continuing violations, will be supported by a preponderance of the evidence.

(F) Upon the investigation's conclusion, the department will determine whether the proprietor or individual violated a provision or provisions of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or of this chapter and will specify the nature and number of violations. Upon request, proprietors or individuals will have the opportunity to review the evidence forming the basis for the proposed violations.

(1) If the department determines that a proprietor or individual violated a provision of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or of this chapter, and the proprietor or individual does not have a finding of violation within the previous two years, the proprietor or individual will be notified of the proposed finding of violation and afforded an opportunity to provide additional evidence. Proprietors and individuals will submit such additional evidence to the department within thirty days of the proprietor or individual receiving notice of the proposed findings.

(a) After reviewing any additional and timely evidence, the department may affirm, amend, or rescind the proposed findings. The department will notify, in writing, the proprietor or individual of the department's final decision and if the final decision is to affirm or amend the proposed findings, the written notice will constitute the department's warning letter.

(b) If no additional and timely evidence is received, the findings are final and constitute the department's warning letter pursuant to division (A) of section 3794.09 of the Revised Code.

(2) If the department determines that a proprietor or individual violated a provision of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code or of this chapter, and the proprietor or individual has one or more findings of violation within the previous two years, the proprietor or individual will be notified via certified mail, return receipt requested, or by hand delivery, of the proposed finding of violation and proposed civil fine, in accordance with rule 3701-52-09 of the Administrative Code, as well as afforded an opportunity to request an administrative review of the proposed findings and civil fines. If the notice is returned because of failure of delivery, the department will send the notice by regular mail to the address listed on the report. In such case, the notice will be deemed to have been received three days from the date it was mailed.

(a) Proprietors and individuals or their authorized representative will submit to the department such request for an administrative review within thirty days of receiving notice of the proposed findings and civil fines. Upon receiving a timely request for an administrative review, the department will schedule the administrative review to be held before a board of health or its designee pursuant to section 3709.20 of the Revised Code or an impartial decision maker selected by the Ohio department of health.

(i) The impartial decision maker will be licensed to practice law in Ohio

(ii) Not less than ten days before the scheduled date, the department will mail or deliver notice of the date, time, and place of the administrative review to the proprietor, individual, or authorized representative who submitted the request for administrative review, notice of the date, time, and place of the administrative review. At the discretion of the department or impartial decision maker, the administrative review may be conducted via telephone.

(iii) Any postponements will be by agreement of the proprietor or individual and the department and, if applicable, the impartial decision maker.

(iv) At an administrative review, the proprietor or individual will have the opportunity to present its case and to confront and cross-examine adverse witnesses. The proprietor or individual will have the opportunity to be represented by counsel at their own expense. At an administrative review, if the proprietor is a corporation or a limited liability company, it will be represented by an attorney licensed to practice law in Ohio.

(v) The department or impartial decision maker will prepare a report and recommendation including findings of fact and conclusions of law. The department or impartial decision maker will mail by certified mail, return receipt requested, or hand deliver the report and recommendation to the proprietor or individual and the department.

(vi) A proprietor or individual may, within ten days of receipt of such copy of such written report and recommendation, file with the department written objections to the report and recommendation, which objections will be considered by the department before approving, modifying, or disapproving the recommendation.

(b) The recommendation of the impartial decision maker may be approved, modified, or disapproved by the department, and the final decision of the department based on such report, recommendation, and evidence, or objections of the proprietor or individual, will have the same effect as if such hearing had been conducted by the department. The decision of the department will be final and not subject to further administrative proceedings.

(G) Upon a final decision of the department, the department will serve by certified mail, return receipt requested, upon the proprietor or individual affected thereby, a copy of the final decision and a statement of the time and method by which an appeal may be perfected. A copy of such final decision will, as applicable, be mailed to the attorneys or other representatives of record representing the proprietor or individual. As set forth in division (C) of section 3794.09 of the Revised Code, any proprietor or individual against whom a finding of violation is made pursuant to paragraph (F) of this rule may, within fifteen days, appeal the finding to the Franklin county court of common pleas in accordance with section 119.12 of the Revised Code.

Last updated February 1, 2024 at 8:11 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.07; 3749.08; 3794.09
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 5/3/2007

Rule 3701-52-10 | Civil fines and penalties.

• Effective: November 16, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Pursuant to section 3794.07 of the Revised Code, as it pertains to proprietors, the amount of a fine for a violation of division (A) or (B) of section 3794.02 or section 3794.06 of the Revised Code or rule 3701-52-02 or 3701-52-07 of the Administrative Code will be determined in accordance with the following schedule:

(1) First violation - warning letter;

(2) Second violation - one hundred dollars;

(3) Third violation - five hundred dollars;

(4) Fourth violation - one thousand dollars; and,

(5) Fifth or subsequent violation - two thousand five hundred dollars.

(B) Pursuant to section 3794.07 of the Revised Code, as it pertains to individuals, who have violated division (D) of section 3794.02 of the Revised Code or rule 3701-52-03 of the Administrative Code will be fined in accordance with the following schedule:

(1) First violation - warning letter; and,

(2) Second or subsequent violation - one hundred dollars.

(C) Pursuant to section 3794.07 of the Revised Code and as it pertains to retaliation, the amount of a fine for violation of division (C) of section 3794.02 of the Revised Code or rule 3701-52-02 or 3701-52-03 of the Administrative Code will be determined in accordance with the following schedule:

(1) First violation - warning letter;

(2) Second violation - one thousand dollars; and,

(3) Third or subsequent violation - two thousand five hundred dollars.

(D) In determining the amount of a fine for a violation as set forth in paragraphs (A) to (C) of this rule, violations which occurred more than two years prior to a subsequent violation will not be considered if there has been no subsequent violation in the intervening time period. In determining the amount of a fine for a violation or violations, all complaints received during the pendency of an investigation will be aggregated for purposes of issuing a finding of violation.

(E) The department may decrease or waive any fine imposed pursuant to paragraphs (A) to (C) of this rule upon consideration of any of the following factors:

(1) Whether the proprietor made a good faith effort to prevent the violation from occurring, including efforts to comply with other applicable laws and rules such as division (A) (18) of section 3721.13 of the Revised Code;

(2) Whether the proprietor has substantially complied with the requirements of Chapter 3794. of the Revised Code and this chapter;

(3) Whether the proprietor or individual has a history of compliance;

(4) Whether the proprietor cooperated in good faith during the investigation of the reported violation; and,

(5) Whether a proprietor or individual has shown good cause to support decreasing or waiving the fine.

(F) Upon a final finding of violation, each day that specific violation continues will constitute a separate violation. The total penalty assessment for the separate violation is calculated as the product of the number of days the proprietor or individual remained in violation after the final finding of a violation multiplied by the applicable penalty amount in paragraphs (A) to (C) of this rule. Fines imposed pursuant to this rule will be doubled when the department finds the violation to be intentional. Violations which occurred more than two years prior to the current violation will not be considered if there has been no subsequent violation in the intervening time period when determining the amount of fine pursuant to this rule for the current violation.

(G) Upon a final finding of violation, the Ohio department of health will invoice the proprietor or individual for the assessed fines. The proprietor or individual will pay all fines as follows:

(1) Within thirty days of the Ohio department of health's invoice:

(a) Pay all fines assessed; or

(b) At the sole discretion of the director, enter into a payment plan agreement with the department to pay the total assessed fines within a period of no longer than twelve months. Failure of a proprietor or individual to make timely payments in accordance with an agreed upon payment plan will result in the following:

(i) Cancellation of the payment plan; and

(ii) Forwarding of the remaining balance to the Ohio attorney general for collections.

(2) All fines will be sent to the Ohio department of health in the manner prescribed by the director of health and in the form of an online payment outlined on the invoice, a cashier's check, or a postal money order, payable to the "Treasurer, State of Ohio."

(H) At any time, if it is determined that a retail tobacco store or retail vapor store has submitted false information as part of the exemption affidavit process, the retail tobacco store's or retail vapor store's exemption will be revoked and any current exemption document are to be returned to the Ohio department of health or its designee, and the store is not allowed to file for another exemption for a period of at least one year.

Last updated November 16, 2023 at 8:28 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3794.07
Amplifies: 3794.07; 3794.09
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028