The DC Council has introduced B26-0590, the Smoke-Free Residential Environments Amendment Act of 2026. This proposal would prohibit smoking any tobacco product indoors in any multifamily housing with two or more dwelling units and within 25 feet of an entrance or window when another person is present.
For premium cigar consumers, this bill represents a dramatic expansion of government control into private homes.
Under this measure, adults who live in condominiums, townhomes, multifamily buildings, or duplexes could be prohibited from enjoying a premium cigar inside their own residence. The 25-foot restriction would also make it nearly impossible for residents to enjoy a cigar on a balcony, patio, or in many cases even in their own yard if someone else is nearby.
That means no relaxing with a cigar after work on your own property. No enjoying a celebratory cigar during a backyard barbecue if you live in a multifamily dwelling. No hosting friends for a legal adult gathering without risking a complaint.
Premium cigars are handcrafted products enjoyed occasionally and socially by adults. They are fundamentally different from all other tobacco products in usage patterns, frequency, and cultural context. Yet this legislation makes no distinction and imposes a sweeping, one-size-fits-all prohibition.
Property owners and land lords already have the right to adopt voluntary smoke-free policies. Many do. This bill replaces private agreements with a blanket government mandate that intrudes into lawful adult conduct inside private residences.
We urge DC residents and advocates to contact their Councilmembers and oppose B26-0590. Private homes should remain private.