Almost a month after giving two readings to a by-law that bans smoking within 10 metres of a city playground or athletic field, Grande Prairie city council gave third and final reading to the by-law last night.

You could now face a $200 fine if you are caught smoking near these areas.

But city councillor John Croken says there are a few exceptions.

 "If you are in a vehicle that borders the park you can smoke in your vehicle-I mean, that's private property you can do what you want there. Or if your house backs onto a park that is smoke-free." 

Third reading was pushed back to last night after concerns were raised over the former name of the by-law led some to think it would be in effect for all city parks.

The renaming of the by-law to "Smoke Free Playgrounds and Athletic Fields", and the subsequent third reading were both passed unanimously. 

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