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University Policy 45

Smoking and Vaping Policies

Approved by Executive Council: June 30, 2008
Effective Date: July 1, 2008
Revised: October 24, 2016
Reviewed: September 9, 2022
Technical Changes: July 19, 2024

Policy Topic: University Facilities and State Owned Property
Administering Office: Office of Administration and Finance

I. POLICY STATEMENT

It is the policy of Western Carolina University (the “University”) to accommodate the reasonable interests of both smokers and non-smokers on campus in a manner consistent with state law.  This policy also addresses the corresponding interests of vapers and non-vapers on campus.

II. DEFINITIONS

“smoke, smokes or smoking” shall be defined as the use or possession of a lighted cigarette, lighted cigar, lighted pipe or
any other lighted tobacco product.

vape, vapes or vaping” shall be defined as any non-lighted, noncombustible product that employs a mechanical heating
element, battery, or electronic circuit regardless of shape or size and that can be used to produce vapor from nicotine in
a solution. The term includes any vapor cartridge or other container of nicotine in a solution or other form that is intended
to be used with or in an electronic cigarette, electronic cigar, electronic cigarillo, electronic pipe, or similar product or device.
The term does not include any product regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration under Chapter V of
the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

building” shall be defined as any permanent or temporary University structure utilized for the support, shelter or enclosure
of people or property.  For illustrative purposes, residence halls, dining halls, classrooms and other academic structures,
clinics, laboratories, office and administrative structures, libraries, workshops, gymnasiums, and recreation facilities,
including associated spaces such as inside and outside dining areas, vending areas, breezeways, stairwells, and connectors
are buildings.  For purposes of this policy the term buildings also includes shuttle stops, athletic fields, and parking decks.

III. SMOKING AND VAPING PROHIBITED IN BUILDINGS

In accordance with North Carolina State law, the University prohibits smoking in buildings owned, leased (as lessor) or
leased (as lessee) and occupied by State government.  Additionally, upon the adoption of the 2016 revisions to this
policy, the University prohibits vaping in University buildings.  Smoking and vaping are also prohibited within fifty (50) linear
feet of University buildings, and may be prohibited in other outdoor spaces (beyond 50 feet) for safety or health reasons. 

IV. SMOKING AND VAPING PROHIBITED IN VEHICLES

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in State-owned vehicles.  The individual or the individual's designee in charge of
assigning the vehicle shall place one or more signs in conspicuous areas of the vehicle.  The signs shall state that
"smoking is prohibited" and may include the international "No Smoking" symbol, which consists of a pictorial representation
of a burning cigarette enclosed in a red circle with a red bar across it.  

V. POLICY REVIEW

This policy shall be reviewed and revised as necessary every four (4) years.

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