Tobacco Enforcement
We seek to protect public health by reducing exposure to tobacco and secondhand smoke. We also enforce bans on the sale of tobacco to minors
Tobacco Sales to Minors
According to City of Springfield ordinance, tobacco sales to minors are prohibited. Businesses that do not comply may be ticketed.
We are committed to working diligently with business owners to help them understand current applicable city ordinances.
Business owners who would like a consultation visit, staff training, and/or education may contact Karen McKinnis at 417-864-1623.
Smokefree Dining
In 2003 Springfield City Council approved an ordinance restricting smoking in dining establishments. Businesses were given a grace period in which to change policy, apply for an exemption or make facility changes.
We visit dining establishments to evaluate their compliance with the ordinance. In addition, we investigate smokefree dining complaints from the general public. To make a complaint regarding a dining establishment that is not in compliance with Springfield's smokefree dining ordinance, please contact Karen McKinnis at 417-864-1623.
View a list of restaurants with exemptions from the smoke-free dining ordinance.
Tobacco Enforcement Staff
- Karen McKinnis, Environmental/Community Health Planner
kmckinnis@springfieldmo.gov | 417-864-1623
Karen's graduate and undergraduate background focused on Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics; followed by Medical Technology School. Karen is a fellow of the Missouri Public Health Leadership Institute of St. Louis University. Karen's professional work history started in 1983 working in a large clinical laboratory specializing in microbiology and infection control, then moved to a forensic laboratory specializing in serology, toxicology, drug analysis and crime scenes and finally to her current career in public health.




