Down and stubbed out in Beverly Hills

LOS ANGELES - Outdoor smoking at Beverly Hills restaurants has been officially banned under a city law aimed at promoting a healthier environment in the home of the stars.

Smokers who light up on outdoor restaurant and bar patios face fines ranging from US$100 ($132.32) for a first offence to US$500 for persistent offenders. It applies to virtually all outdoor restaurants and hotels, including celebrity haunts like the Caffe Roma and Spago patios frequented by cigar-loving California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The law was passed by the city council in June but implementation was delayed until after the busy summer tourist season.

- Reuters