We knew this was coming, but now it's official: DNAinfo is reporting that the Chicago Park District's Board of Commissioners has banned smoking in Chicago's parks, effective immediately. The ban applies to all forms of smoking, including tobacco alternatives like e-cigarettes and vaporizers. This resolution will extend to the more than 580 parks, bringing them in line with the smoking ban that is already in effect at Park District beaches and playgrounds. The smoking ban will be enforced by police, who will be authorized to issue a maximum $500 fine to violators.
Though the ban is now in effect, it's unlikely that enforcement will commence immediately, especially without signs in place. Organizers of this weekend's Riot Fest would need to extend re-entry rights to every ticket holder in order to be in compliance with the ban, allowing smokers to exit the festival, light up outside of Humboldt Park and then come back in. That sounds like a logistical nightmare, so it's safe to say that you'll be able to smoke to your heart's content while listening to Slayer and the Cure. That being said, this is probably the last outdoor festival that will be immune to the ban. Next year, you'll be sneaking your joints AND your cigarettes into Lollapalooza.