CHARLOTTE AMALIE, US Virgin Islands (AP) – Tourists will soon need to watch where they light up in the British Virgin Islands.

The British territory’s Legislative Council unanimously approved a smoking ban late Wednesday despite concerns about the effect on tourism in the islands, where visitors are known to smoke more than residents.

“The concern for public health obviously outweighs any of the other concerns,” said Ronnie Skelton, the British territory’s minister of health and social development.

The new measure, which gives smokers a six-month grace period to adjust to the ban, will soon be signed into law by Governor David Pearey, spokesman Duncan Norman said.

Smokers will not be allowed to light up in enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants, or within 50 feet (15 metres) of a door or window to such a space. The measure also bans selling tobacco to minors and gives the government authority to regulate tobacco advertising and sales.

The government has yet to determine the penalties for violations.