Smoking, vaping now banned in Metropolis parks, rec areas

METROPOLIS — Smoking and vaping in city parks and city recreation areas is now banned after the Metropolis City Council approved the official ordinance during its Monday, Nov. 24, meeting.

According to the ordinance, the city council determined that smoking and vaping in public parks and recreational areas increases the risk of fire and creates environmental concerns, including litter from cigarette butts.