Community Corner

Starbucks Bans Smoking On Outdoor Patios: Is This A Good Idea?

Smoking on outdoor patios at Starbucks and within 25 feet of the coffee shop doors has been banned, starting June 1. 

According to The Huffington Post, the ban will affect about 7,000 stores across the U.S. — both those that have outdoor seating and those that do not. Concord has 11 Starbucks locations and Clayton has one.

"We apologize for any inconvenience but we are complying with many current and future regulations," was the explanation that is printed on cards at Starbucks stores.

The company's transition to a completely smoke-free environment could be a radical change for some regulars used to sitting at the outdoor cafe tables to smoke, drink coffee, work on laptops and socialize.

What do you think of the smoking ban at Starbucks? Do you know of any Pinole or Hercules locations that will be affected? Share your thoughts in the comments.


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