Currently, inmates can light up in most of the jail cells. Department workers can smoke in their offices.

But on April 14, smoking will be banned at both Rockville facilities, said Gunster-Kirby. Inmates caught later with tobacco face lockdowns and loss of privileges or time off for good behavior, she said.

The new policy was announced yesterday to the jail's 655 inmates and about 50 people in the county's work-release program, Gunster-Kirby said. About 300 correctional officers also were notified, she said.