Smoking ban signs in Times Square target weed smokers. But is anyone listening?

A sign reminds New Yorkers not to light up in Times Square.
A sign reminds New Yorkers not to light up in Times Square. Photo credit Roger Stern

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The Times Square Alliance placed signs around Times Square reminding New Yorkers to refrain from smoking weed in the plaza, though it’s unclear their message is reaching smokers.

The signs are placed at some pedestrian crosswalks, and none of the people that 1010 WINS spoke with saw the signs.

“Let’s Be Blunt: No Smoking in the Plazas,” read some of the new signs.

Under New York’s 2021 cannabis legalization laws, smoking weed is legal anywhere smoking cigarettes is. The 2002 Smoke Free Air act prohibits smoking in many public spaces though, including parks, beaches and pedestrian plazas like Times Square.

The Times Square Alliance says it's aiming to make a pleasant environment for visitors.

“The Times Square Alliance has increased signage throughout the pedestrian plazas to remind people of the many rules that apply to those spaces including the fact that smoking of any kind is prohibited,” said the organization. “We want all people to have a pleasant experience in our public spaces and got creative after receiving several complaints.”

Featured Image Photo Credit: Roger Stern