The Atlanta City Council has voted to ban smoking in city parks.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that the council's action means those caught smoking in parks could be punished with fines up $1,000 and sentenced to six months in jail or community service.

A city attorney said violations would not go on a person's criminal record.

Councilman Howard Shook of Buckhead cast the only "no" vote. He said he felt Atlanta police had plenty to do without having to enforce a ban on a legal substance.

Opponents argued the ban was similar to if the council had passed a resolution urging people to eat their vegetables and take a daily vitamin.

Public health advocates, high school students and business owners spoke to the council in favor of the ban.