Board votes to ban e-cigarettes

The BART Board of Directors on Thursday adopted an ordinance to ban the use of e-cigarettes and "vaping devices" in the BART system.

The action was taken to update BART's existing policy to be more in line with similar county and city-level bans, and as a courtesy to passengers who have expressed a desire for a consistent and comprehensive no-smoking policy.

“A number of complaints have reached the Board of Directors about people using electronic cigarettes and vaping devices on BART property,” said Director Robert Raburn. “Other transit providers have enacted similar prohibitions.”

New signage will be placed in stations and trains to ensure riders know about the new ban and police will issue warnings during a roll out period.  The penalty will be $100 for first time offenders, $200 for a second violation within one year, and $500 for additional violations within 5 years.