Encinitas Bans Smoking on Beaches

Butts will be banned on beaches in Encinitas following a unanimous vote by the city council.

The San Diego County city joins at least 35 other coastal communities in California that have outlawed smoking at the beach.

The draft ordinance approved Wednesday would apply to 6 1/2 miles of beaches as well as 17 city parks, trails and outdoor eating areas.

A dozen of San Diego County's 18 jurisdictions, including the county itself, ban smoking at all enclosed spaces open to the general public as well as workplaces. Smoking is allowed in designated areas.