In January 2006 the Spanish introduced the anti-smoking law, similar to the UK, prohibiting smoking in the work place and public places, although there are a few fundamental differences compared to the law that was passed in the UK.

Smaller businesses (restaurants and bars) are legally allowed to 'declare' themselves as smoking establishments. They must ensure that they have a sign displayed in an obvious place declaring that they are a 'smoking zone' so that customers are aware they have entered a smoking establishment.

Businesses with larger inside areas are permitted to divide their bar or restaurant into 'smoking' and 'no-smoking' area. However, only 30% of the area can be used as a smoking zone.

When walking around public areas such as shopping centers or airports, you need to remember that smoking is not permitted, and people have been fined for smoking in these areas.

No fumar aquí - No smoking here
Aquí se puede fumar - Smoking permitted here