In a decisive move to uphold public health and preserve the family-friendly atmosphere of its famed boardwalk, Atlantic City has stepped up enforcement against public cannabis smoking. The initiative follows mounting complaints from residents and visitors about increasing cannabis use along the oceanfront promenade.
The crackdown, spearheaded by the Atlantic City Police Department, comes as part of a broader citywide effort to curb outdoor smoking, including tobacco and cannabis, in public areas. It is supported by a $3 million grant from the New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), which has enabled an increase in police patrols and surveillance throughout the summer months.
City officials say the goal is to maintain a clean, welcoming, and safe environment. “We mean business,” said Mayor Marty Small. “We’ll crack down on it, and we’ll get it right.”
Captain Kevin Fair, spokesperson for the Atlantic City Police Department, confirmed that boardwalk patrol officers and the city’s surveillance center are now actively identifying and addressing individuals violating the no-smoking rule. Officers have also been given instructions to educate first-time offenders, although repeated violations will not be taken lightly.
Under city ordinance, smoking of any kind — including cannabis — is banned on the boardwalk, beaches, and other designated public spaces. Those caught breaking the law face civil penalties. First-time offenders may be fined up to $500, and repeat offenses could bring more severe consequences. The ordinance aims to reduce secondhand smoke exposure and discourage cannabis normalization in areas frequented by children and families.
The move has sparked a conversation about the consistency of smoking laws in the city. While cannabis and tobacco smoking are prohibited outdoors on the boardwalk, indoor smoking continues to be allowed inside casinos. This inconsistency has drawn criticism from advocacy groups and casino workers who argue that allowing smoking indoors while banning it outside sends a mixed message and places employees at risk.
Groups such as Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) have expressed frustration that the health of casino workers continues to be compromised. Advocates argue that if public health is the priority, then a broader, more uniform policy should be considered — one that includes both indoor and outdoor environments.
For now, city officials are focused on protecting the image of the Atlantic City boardwalk as a wholesome, accessible destination. The smoking ban is also seen as a way to support local tourism by aligning the city with other coastal destinations that have already implemented similar smoke-free policies.
As summer approaches and foot traffic increases along the boardwalk, enforcement will remain a top priority for city leadership. With an expanded police presence and heightened community awareness, Atlantic City is sending a clear message: cannabis smoking is not welcome on its boardwalk.