French Town Bans Shisha Smoking in Public Spaces, Sparking Debate

Estrées-Saint-Denis is the second municipality to ban the consumption of shisha in public spaces after Béthisy-Saint-Pierre in 2018, reports Le Parisien. For Charles Pouplin, it is a necessity.

"These are young people who squat the steps of the town hall stairs, who settle on the benches in front of the schools. They are in full view, it looks bad here," he said, thus showing the scope of his decree.

This decision by the Mayor is diversely appreciated by his constituents. According to Squadron Chief Aurélien Baud, Commander of the Compiègne gendarmerie company, "the town hall has a police power, it is responsible for public tranquility."

"There was no legal means to act. These are young people from 14 to 18 years old, they are not very mean. This decree is above all preventive, but if they persist, we can issue a maximum fine of 38 €," rejoices the municipal police officer, Fabrice Gosse.

"[...] It’s sure: it smells like strawberry or apple, but it’s dangerous for health!" warns a parent. Conversely, a 14-year-old teenager, who has "never tried it" believes that shisha smokers "don’t bother and it smells rather good when you walk by."