As of April 1st, smokers would be under a proviso not to smoke within six metres of the patio, entryway or window of a public building.

Hookah lounges and cigar store smoking rooms would also have closed under the new rules, but after hearing from the public today council is exploring exemptions.

Wayne Ryan appealed to city council on the basis of the hookah's cultural significance.

"If you're a Muslim, the Koran prohibits you from alcohol and the hundreds of bars that are off limits to you. To Canadians of middle east heritage the hookah lounge is their bar, it is their social gathering and meeting place, especially for young people."

While exploring those exemptions, city council is moving to close a loophole that would have allowed smoking in vehicles for hire, like cabs.

A re-draft of the by-law will come back to council in two weeks.

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