Smoking prohibited in all pubs and bars in the Netherlands

As of today, a smoking ban has become effective for all pubs and bars in the Netherlands.

Smoking was already prohibited in most places (bars, restaurants, hotels, etc.), but an exception was made for small cafes without staff and a maximum floor space of 70 m2.

The Dutch Supreme Court ('Hoge Raad') had ruled that the exception was unlawful, and the government decided that the smoking ban is to be complete starting today.

The prohibition is punishable by a fine of maximum E 600,- (for the bar owner).