By David Madden

CHERRY HILL, NJ (CBS) — Cherry Hill is moving to become the latest community in the Delaware Valley to ban smoking in any township-owned area.

An ordinance awaiting final passage at the end of the month would make it illegal to light up in a park, playground, school or township facility. And yes, that covers chewing tobacco, too.

Cherry Hill Mayor Chuck Kahn says, “By passing an ordinance that has some real penalties behind it, I think that makes this a big difference.”

A sign warns that a playground in Cherry Hill is smoke-free. (Credit: David Madden)

A similar ordinance covers Camden County parks and there are prohibitions of one kind or another in several South Jersey communities, including Palmyra, Glassboro, Clayton and Bridgeton.

But Kahn says his plan is far more extensive. Violators could face fines that start at $100.

“This is about protecting our children, giving our residents the right to enjoy our outdoor facilities and public spaces without putting their health at risk and keeping our landscape clean.”

Enforcement is likely to begin in earnest in January.