The city of Gulfport is taking steps to create a cleaner, healthier environment along the city’s shoreline. Gulfport city council members voted on Tuesday to approve a ban on smoking and vaping at public beaches. The proposed ordinance prohibits the use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and other tobacco products on the sand, the adjacent grassy areas, public pavilions, and up to the sidewalks. The only exception is for unfiltered cigarettes and cigars. During public comment, some people pushed for the ban to extend to city parks. Leaders said they would consider drafting a separate ordinance for that proposal. The ban puts Gulfport in line with a Florida state law — the Florida Clean Air Act — that permits municipalities to restrict smoking in public parks and beaches. Supporters of the new ban, say it’s a crucial step in protecting local waterways, as tobacco waste — particularly cigarette butts — often ends up polluting the ocean and shoreline. But not everyone is on board. This isn’t the first time Gulfport has tried to regulate smoking on its beaches. A similar ordinance was passed in 2011 but was overturned following a legal challenge. You can check out the new smoking and vaping ban ordinance on the city's website.