Smoking Ban and Protection of Minors: Violations Found in One in Five Inspections

Inspections across the Czech Republic revealed breaches of smoking and youth protection laws, although compliance improved slightly compared with the previous year.

During the summer of 2026, Czech authorities carried out nationwide inspections of restaurants, bars and clubs, focusing on compliance with the smoking ban and regulations protecting minors from alcohol and tobacco.

The inspections took place from 15 June to 15 September 2026 as part of the nationwide campaign "Alcohol, Drugs and Youth 2026" (ADaM). The campaign was organised by the Czech Police in cooperation with the Office of the Government, the Czech Trade Inspection Authority, the Customs Administration and the Ministry of Health.

A total of 125 employees from regional public health authorities participated in the inspections. They carried out 555 inspections nationwide, including 161 in restaurants and 281 in bars and clubs.

Violations Found in Around 21 Per Cent of Inspections

The authorities identified shortcomings in 116 of the 555 inspections. So far, 56 fines totalling CZK 119,000 have been imposed in connection with the inspections.

Compared with the previous year, the results show a slight improvement. While violations were found in around 26 per cent of inspections in 2025, this figure fell to approximately 21 per cent in 2026.

Nevertheless, according to the Ministry of Health, the results show that operators continue to breach legal regulations and that regular inspections remain necessary.

Smoking Ban and Protection of Minors in Focus

Inspectors checked, among other things, whether the smoking ban was being observed indoors and whether the required notices prohibiting the sale of alcohol and tobacco products to people under the age of 18 were displayed.

According to the Ministry of Health, the inspections are intended not only to identify and penalise violations but also to contribute to prevention. Another key focus is informing operators about their legal obligations and creating a safer environment for children and young people.