Montana Clean Indoor Air Act
In 2005, the Montana legislature passed the Clean Indoor Air Act (CIAA) The CIAA recognizes that the need to breathe smokefree air has priority over the desire to smoke.
*NEW* Using e-cigarettes, or vapes, is no longer allowed in Montana’s enclosed public places. This is the result of SB 390, a bill passed by the Montana Legislature and signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte on May 8, 2025. The new law went into effect immediately.
The CIAA prohibits smoking, including the use of marijuana and e-cigarettes, in enclosed public places. It requires establishments containing an enclosed public place to post a sign in a conspicuous place at all public entrances to the establishment stating that smoking is prohibited.
The health benefits of the CIAA are three-fold:
- Patrons and workers alike are protected from the deadly health effects of secondhand smoke exposure.
- More people who smoke will try to quit.
- Fewer Montana youth will begin smoking.
Report a possible violation of the CIAA online or complete and mail a hard copy form.
Under federal law, the CIAA applies on reservations as follows:
- The CIAA does not apply to public facilities owned and operated by tribal governments or tribal members within their reservation of enrollment.
- The CIAA does apply to non-member owned public facilities operating on non-tribal lands within reservations.
In addition, MCA § 50-40-104, section e states, “a site that is being used in connection with the practice of cultural activities by American Indians that is in accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, 42 U.S.C. 1996 and 1996a” is exempt.
Tobacco-Free Places
Localities and organizations can go beyond the CIAA by prohibiting the use of all forms of commercial tobacco products (i.e., cigarettes, cigars, chew, nicotine pouches, e-cigarettes, etc.) on properties. Tobacco-free environments prevent secondhand smoke and e-cigarette aerosol exposure, reduce tobacco litter, lower cleanup costs, promote healthy behaviors to youth, and help those who are trying to quit tobacco.
The Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program (MTUPP) offers model policies, no cost signage and materials, and assistance to any organization wishing to go tobacco-free. For further help and information, find your local Tobacco Education Specialist or MTUPP's Policy Specialist at Contact Us.
