HAINES CITY, Fla. — In Haines City, a park is more than just a place to play — it’s a safe haven for youth in the community.

What You Need To Know

  • Students with Polk Students Working Against Tobacco inspired a new ordinance banning smoking and vaping in Haines City’s public parks

  • The ordinance aims to create a cleaner, safer environment for families and youth

  • While violators may face fines up to $500, city officials emphasize education over punishment

“Youth are going to find something to do, whether it’s something positive or negative. So here in Haines City, we strive to provide outdoor basketball courts, playgrounds and recreational amenities to give youth opportunities to get out, instead of getting into trouble,” said Terrell Griffin, director of Parks and Recreation.

Griffin has served as the city’s Parks and Recreation director since 2018. He says even before taking the job, he had a clear goal — to enhance Haines City’s outdoor spaces.

“We’ve been able to add some additional parks. We’ve added an aquatic facility, and just maintaining what we have — it’s very important to maintain the infrastructure while adding new amenities to that inventory,” he said.

City leaders have also introduced a new ordinance banning smoking and vaping in public parks.

The ban was inspired by a presentation from students with the advocacy group Polk Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT). Members Troy Livingstone and McArthur Sanders say they’re excited to have been part of the change.

“It makes me feel great knowing that my generation and the generations to come are not only going to be nicotine-free but also smoke-free in general,” Livingstone said. “It allows for a more positive environment, allows everybody to have a safer environment — because who doesn’t want a safe environment?”

For Griffin, the ordinance is personal. He lost his father, a lifelong smoker, to cancer.

To help protect the health and wellbeing of others, his team is installing “No Smoking” signs throughout the area. Violators could face fines of up to $500.

“In those extreme cases where we ask an individual to stop smoking and they refuse to do so, usually PD is already going to be on site. But in most cases, it’s not about trying to get anybody arrested or fined,” Griffin said.

Instead, Griffin says the ordinance serves as a reminder that health and safety are the city’s top priorities.

The city’s ordinance falls under Florida’s 2022 Clean Air Act, which authorizes local governments to restrict smoking in public parks and on beaches.