The New York State Fair will ban outdoor smoking at the fairgrounds beginning in 2022, but will create small designated areas for it, fair officials announced Wednesday.

Smoking is already prohibited by state law inside all fairgrounds buildings, and by fair policy at Chevy Court and Chevy Park concert venues.

Locations for the designated smoking areas are still to be determined.

“Smoking always ranks high on the list of issues fairgoers want us to tackle, and the issue was particularly acute this year," Fair Director Troy Waffner said. "We’re pleased to take this action to make the Fair as comfortable and family-friendly as possible for everyone.”

This policy only covers the State Fair. Smoking policies for non-Fair events at the fairgrounds will remain the responsibility of individual event promoters.

"I applaud the New York State Fair for protecting the health of the community by taking steps to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke for all those working at and visiting the Fairgrounds," Onondaga County Health Commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta said. "With smoking in Onondaga County and NYS at an all-time low, this is an important step to create an environment that not only protects our vulnerable but also supports those who have quit or are trying to quit, all while maintaining a family-friendly and fun event."