New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg on Tuesday signed into law an extension of the city’s smoking ban to include parks, beaches, swimming pools, docks, recreational premises and pedestrian spaces.

As of 23 May 2011 smoking will be prohibited in 1,700 city parks and along 14 miles of beaches, as well as pedestrian spaces such as Times Square.
A  fine of up to USD 100 (EUR 72.40) can be levied to those who disobey the ban. It will be enforced by the city's parks department. 
The legislation was previously passed by the city council which vote 36 to 12 in favour of the smoking restrictions. Some of the councillors who voted against the measures said they infringe individual rights.
Smoking is also prohibited in Los Angeles city parks and in Chicago parks with playgrounds. New York City passed its first Smoke Free Air Act in 1988, when smoking was banned in public restrooms and taxicabs. Since then, the law has been amended three times, most notably in 2002, when smoking in indoor areas – including restaurants and bars – was banned. (pi)