Rehoboth seeks permit for no-smoking signs

To implement its recently passed smoking ban, Rehoboth Beach officials are seeking a permit from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control to place 20 sign posts along the beach.

While the city’s smoking ban, passed March 10, also includes the beach, Rehoboth’s commissioners also allowed for designated smoking areas on the beach.

There will be up to 20 designated areas during the summer season with no more than four the rest of the year. Smokers will be allowed to smoke within 12 feet of the sign.

The city plans to mount the signs on four-by-four wood posts that must be at least 40 feet apart with signs placed a foot away from the dunes, midway between the dune crossings.

Commissioner Stan Mills, architect of the smoking ordinance, said a key to compliance with smoking restrictions is to ensure smokers can find designated smoking areas on the beach.

He said placing signs on posts, instead of on the dune fencing, will improve visibility from the beach, Boardwalk and dune crossings.

Jennifer Luoma, spokeswoman for DNREC, said the department requires a permit for structures on the beach. She said DNREC will not render a decision until at least 20 days have passed since public notice was given March 30. Public comments could delay a decision, Luoma said.

Rehoboth’s smoking ban is due to take effect Thursday, May 15.

Comments can be submitted in writing until Saturday, April 12, to the Division of Watershed Stewardship, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901. Comments can also be sent via email to jennifer.luoma@state.de.us.