HONOLULU – The State Department of Natural Resources is reminding the public of a new law the went into effect on July 1st prohibiting smoking at state parks.

This media release was issued Wednesday:

HONOLULU — Smoking is now banned in all Hawaiʻi State Parks, as a new law – Act 123, SLH 2015 – went into effect as of July 1, 2015. The ban includes smoking, including electronic cigarettes, and all tobacco products in all state parks in Hawaii. It applies to all areas of the parks, including beaches, picnic and camping areas, trails and roadways.

Hawaiʻi’s State Park system is composed of 50 state parks encompassing approximately 30,000 acres on 5 major islands. These parks offer varied outdoor recreation and heritage opportunities. The park environments range from landscaped grounds with developed facilities to wildland areas with trails and primitive facilities. For a list of all Hawaii State Parks go to dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/

Violators may be cited. Penalties for violation of the new law are $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $500 for subsequent offenses. The law is enforceable by both DLNR DOCARE officers and county police officers.

“Hawaii’s State Parks are important for public enjoyment of natural and wilderness areas, recreational activities, cultural and historic sites. We ask the public’s compliance with this new law,” said Dan Quinn, State Parks administrator.

“Protecting these areas from danger of wildfire that could affect native and endangered species, reducing trash and pollution, and ensuring the health of all members of the public while enjoying the outdoors is a significant benefit we anticipate,” said Suzanne Case, DLNR Chairperson.