In Michigan, casinos play a significant role for both residents and tourists. Beyond gaming and entertainment, one of the issues that continues to spark debate is smoking policies. Although this topic has gained increasing attention over the years, regulations and practices regarding smoking in casinos remain highly diverse. These policies are influenced not only by state legislation but also by individual casino choices, which can vary depending on the type of establishment and its target audience.
State Legislation and Smoking in Casinos
The Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law, implemented in 2010, prohibited smoking in all enclosed workplaces, including restaurants, bars, and other public areas. However, Michigan casinos were exempted from this regulation. In fact, the law included a specific exception for casinos, allowing them to permit smoking in gaming areas to avoid disrupting the gaming experience for a significant portion of their clientele.
This means that casinos existing before the law’s introduction, like those in Detroit, have the option to decide whether to implement smoke-free spaces or continue allowing smoking in their gaming areas. As a result, smoking policies can vary significantly between different establishments.
Detroit Casinos: Different Approaches
In Detroit, the three main casinos—MGM Grand Detroit, Hollywood Casino at Greektown, and MotorCity Casino—follow state guidelines regarding smoking but have chosen different approaches to managing gaming areas.
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MGM Grand Detroit: One of the largest and most visited establishments in the city, MGM has decided to reserve specific areas where smoking is allowed. The designated sections, “Smoking Slots East” and “Smoking Slots West”, allow smokers to enjoy gaming while smoking, without affecting the experience of other visitors. While smoking is allowed in these areas, the casino has chosen not to permit it in other parts of the facility, creating a clear division between smokers and non-smokers.
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Hollywood Casino at Greektown: This casino has also created a separate smoking area. While adhering to state laws, it has implemented a smoking zone inside the casino. This way, those who wish to smoke can do so freely without disrupting the experience of non-smokers.
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MotorCity Casino: Like the other Detroit casinos, MotorCity has designated areas for smokers, in accordance with state regulations. This casino has adapted to state laws but has made sure to provide a clear choice between smoking and non-smoking areas.
Detroit casinos, therefore, aim to balance the demand for smoking areas with the preferences of those who prefer smoke-free environments, thus catering to a broad range of customers.
Tribal Casinos and Smoking Policies
In Michigan, tribal casinos represent a significant portion of the gaming offering. Managed by Native American tribes, these casinos operate under different laws than those in the state, and many tribes have chosen to implement stricter policies than urban casinos. Some tribal casinos have completely banned smoking, opting to create healthier environments for their patrons.
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Island Resort & Casino: Located in the Upper Peninsula, this casino is one of the most notable examples of a completely smoke-free facility. The decision to prohibit smoking in all indoor areas reflects a commitment to providing a healthier environment for visitors and staff. This choice has had a positive impact, attracting a wider customer base, including families and non-smokers.
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Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge: Another tribal casino that has chosen to ban smoking in its indoor areas is the Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge, located in Suttons Bay. This policy was introduced to improve the atmosphere inside the facility and to meet the needs of a clientele that prefers non-smoking environments.
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Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel: Also operated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, this casino has implemented a smoke-free policy throughout its indoor areas. The decision was made to promote the health of customers and staff, reflecting a growing commitment to healthier and more sustainable practices.
In contrast, other tribal casinos have chosen to provide separate areas for smokers, such as at the Odawa Casino in Petoskey. Here, guests can choose whether to play in a smoke-free environment or in a designated smoking area.
A Major Change: Ojibwa Casinos
A recent and significant update concerns the Ojibwa Casinos, which manage the Baraga and Marquette properties in the Upper Peninsula. Starting on March 24, 2025, these casinos will adopt a completely smoke-free policy. This change reflects a growing commitment to public health by improving the air quality inside their facilities and reducing the risks associated with secondhand smoke.
This decision is important not only for its health benefits but also for the casino’s image, aligning with modern trends of smoke-free public spaces. The Ojibwa Casinos have clearly sought to respond to increasing demand for healthier environments.
Conclusions: A Varied Landscape
In summary, smoking policies in Michigan casinos, while influenced by state and tribal laws, reflect a varied and evolving landscape. Some casinos, like those in Detroit, permit smoking in gaming areas but implement designated smoking spaces, while others, particularly tribal casinos, are increasingly inclined to ban it entirely to ensure a healthy environment for both customers and staff.
The variety of approaches to smoking policies makes it essential for visitors to check the specific rules of the casinos they plan to visit. This way, they can make an informed choice based on their personal preferences regarding smoking.
The changes in many establishments, such as those at Ojibwa Casinos, suggest that even in the gaming sector, there is a growing focus on public health, responding to the needs of a more health-conscious and aware audience. These developments will likely lead to a continued adoption of smoke-free policies, especially in tribal casinos.
