Glen Cove has become the first community in Nassau County to ban the smoking of marijuana in public spaces. The city council approved the new law Tuesday night during a packed meeting that drew residents on both sides of the debate.

The measure prohibits marijuana smoking on sidewalks, in parks, public squares, beaches and any other public area. City officials said the change comes in response to a growing number of complaints from residents about the smell of cannabis smoke throughout town.

The public hearing before the vote was heated at times, with residents voicing sharply differing views.

“There is a time and a place for adult substances, and our parks, streets, playgrounds and public spaces are not the place for marijuana use,” said Glen Cove resident Bruce Kennedy.

Others argued the ban goes too far. Resident Karen Mendez urged the council to consider personal freedom.

“I believe, if anything, people should be able to have the freedom of doing what they want without hurting others,” she said.

Under the new law, anyone caught smoking marijuana in public will face a fine of up to $100 for a first offense and up to $250 for subsequent violations.