The first filtered cigarette sales ban to go into effect in the world will be enforced in Santa Cruz County and two of its cities beginning in 2027, county officials announced this week.
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors voted in October 2024 to adopt the ban starting Jan. 1, 2027, on the condition that at least two other local governments pass similar measures. That requirement was met this year when the city of Santa Cruz approved a ban on June 24, followed by the city of Capitola on Sept. 11.
The ordinances will take effect in those two cities as well as unincorporated areas. Enforcement of the sales ban will begin Jan. 1, 2027, in the county and the City of Santa Cruz. Capitola will begin enforcement on July 1, 2027.
Cigarette butts are the single most common form of litter on earth, with the World Health Organization estimating 4.5 trillion discarded annually, and county officials said filters have no proven health benefit to smokers.
“Cigarette butts are toxic, they’re useless and they’re everywhere. As the guardians of Monterey Bay, we’re standing up and telling Big Tobacco, this ends NOW. We invite communities worldwide to join us.” Supervisor Manu Koenig
“Santa Cruz County is always at the forefront of making change. This policy adds to the legacy of our community standing up to big corporations to protect the health of our residents and our environment. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to supporting other communities who wish to join our effort,” Supervisor Justin Cummings said in a statement released Monday.
“Cigarette butts are toxic, they’re useless and they’re everywhere. As the guardians of Monterey Bay, we’re standing up and telling Big Tobacco, this ends NOW. We invite communities worldwide to join us,” Supervisor Manu Koenig said.
County officials explained the new policies are intended to reduce tobacco filter pollution, lower cleanup costs, and support businesses that depend on a clean environment. To help with implementation, county officials will provide outreach materials for retailers and community members, assist with product transitions, and support enforcement.
According to county officials, previous bans on single-use plastics and Styrofoam showed no lasting negative economic impacts.