The Northwest Territories government has banned smoking in all publicly owned and operated apartments, including social housing.

A news release from the government on Wednesday says the rule, which came into effect Wednesday, does not apply to the ceremonial or cultural use of tobacco.

It says there will be designated smoking areas and receptacles around social housing areas for those who need it. People will have to light up at least three metres away from any entrance.

The government says the change in policy helps protect the health of residents, especially children, elders and those with respiratory problems.

It adds that the new policy will decrease fire risk, making buildings safer, and reduce maintenance costs.

The release says the government is also working to make programs available for residents who want to quit smoking.

It also says that staff will provide tenants with resources “to help them adjust and avoid penalties,” though it does not say what those penalties might be. Eviction would be a “last resort,” it says.

‘You can’t get rid of the smell’

Northwest Territories is the last jurisdiction in Canada to implement restrictions on smoking in social housing, according to the government.

Yellowknife resident Mike Handley doesn’t live in social housing, but he believes the government made the right decision.

“I find you got to be respectful for other people who are coming over, or if you have family or friends or kids in there as well, because they’re all exposed to the same environment,” he said.

“You can’t get rid of the smell [of smoke]. It’s there forever. You can tell if the place has been smoked in.”

Irene Enzoe, another Yellowknife resident, says she believes a person should be able to smoke in their home. She is a smoker herself, but she doesn’t live in public housing.

“I think you’re allowed to do whatever you want to do in your own home,” she said. “I don’t wanna stand outside and smoke, you know.”  

The government says the decision, first announced last year, was made in response to public concerns, including from Indigenous communities, and because of the risks from smoking and second-hand smoke.

“It is understandable if this change is hard for some tenants. The implementation approach will focus on education and support, ensuring that tenants are fully informed about the ban and its benefits,” the government said in the news release.