Smoking at outdoor restaurant patios in San Diego could soon be banned citywide. A San Diego City Council committee is recommending a prohibition on smoking in outdoor dining areas after supporting the proposal this week. Currently, San Diego does not ban smoking at restaurant patios, setting the city apart from several nearby communities that already have similar restrictions. Supporters of the proposed ban say it would provide cleaner air for diners, restaurant workers and people spending time in outdoor dining areas. Opponents of the measure have raised concerns about how the rules could affect restaurants and customers. The proposal now moves to the full San Diego City Council for consideration later this year. If approved, the new restrictions would apply to outdoor dining areas at restaurants throughout the city. The measure could affect both restaurant operators and customers, particularly businesses that offer patios as part of their dining space. City officials are expected to discuss the proposal before taking a final vote.
