The extension of the smoking ban to outdoor seating areas is to take effect on 1 January 2026, according to the initial draft of an amendment to the measure.
This was stated by Horeca Vlaanderen, which represents Flemish hospitality businesses, following a preliminary meeting between sector federations and the office of Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke.
Sector federations Horeca Vlaanderen, Horeca Wallonia, and Horeca Brussels were briefed on Friday on the first version of the proposed legislation, which includes a general smoking ban on terraces from 2026, a smoke-free zone extending 10 metres around these terraces, shared responsibility between operators and consumers, and the elimination of smoking rooms.
Matthias De Caluwe, CEO of Horeca Vlaanderen, expressed concern that the draft does not consider the federation’s alternative proposals or practical objections. He emphasised the need for a longer transition period despite the government’s intention to enforce the plans by 2026, as written in the coalition agreement.
Horeca Vlaanderen explicitly requests that the responsibility for adhering to the smoking legislation— currently shared between operators and consumers— be not placed solely on the operators, provided they adhere to the regulations.
De Caluwe argues that operators should not have to police terraces in the absence of staff, and suggests they be exempt if clear signage is present and ashtrays are absent, ensuring legal clarity.
A recent member survey reveals that 72% of businesses oppose a terrace smoking ban, with 67% fearing revenue loss. There are also concerns about defining the 10-metre zone, particularly as current drafts allow smoking on public benches and picnic spots within that perimeter. De Caluwe questions how these measures will work in areas with multiple adjacent terraces, and suggests that smokers will simply relocate a short distance away.
Belgian hospitality venues became completely smoke-free on 1 July 2011. Now, the federal coalition plans to extend this ban to terraces and to abolish smoking rooms.
Horeca Vlaanderen and the other federations are hoping for a revised proposal that considers their concerns and offers alternatives, such as designated smoking and non-smoking zones on terraces or maintaining entrepreneurs’ freedom of choice.
