What are the smoking restrictions when living in a town house with adjoining fences in courtyards? – Pamela, NSW

Please refer to your schemes by-laws. In most strata plans, the by-laws can define smoking related rules so that everyone can enjoy their property in the best possible way.

If your by-laws are unclear or unhelpful, you may discuss the option of adopting model by-laws and making clearer provisions and restrictions regarding smoke drift. This can be formalised in an AGM by passing a special resolution.

You should note that smoking on private property is hard to restrict as every owner has the right to enjoy their property in their own way.