In the new year, officers will be cracking down on smoking inside two Pike County buildings.

Five years ago, the fiscal court approved a smoking ban for the Hall of Justice and Courthouse.

However, officials say not everyone is abiding by the rules.

Smoker Daniel Lafferty likes to light up whenever he wants, but Pike County officials say he cannot smoke at the Hall of Justice or Courthouse.

"To me, it's ridiculous. There's bigger problems to worry about than simple smokers." Lafferty Said.

Pike County has had a smoking ban ordinance for the buildings since 2006.

The ordinance states it is to protect the health of employees and others.

Now, county officials say people are submitting formal complaints about people not following the rules and smoking at the buildings.

"We'll comply with the county ordinance we have and do the best we can to enforce the ordinance." Pike County Judge Executive Wayne T. Rutherford said.

In the new year, sheriff deputies will be looking for smokers in the Hall of Justice and Courthouse.

Anyone caught smoking in the buildings will get a citation and a $50 fine.

Which is enough to make Lafferty think twice before lighting up.

"I'll be cautious about it. Nobody wants to get a ticket because in today's economy, nobody can afford to lose any money." Lafferty said.

County officials say the smoking ban will be strictly enforced.

Officials say maintenance workers will also conduct routine checks around the buildings looking for signs of smoking.