Mayor Kenneth Pringle says litter is the main problem and that cigarette butts can be found everywhere.
Belmar, which is just south of Asbury Park, already passed an ordinance in 2001 that confined smoking to the designated areas, with fines for violating the rules as well as for littering.
Some officials support the idea, while others are concerned that enforcing the ordinance could tie up more municipal resources.
About 50 residents came out for Saturday's meeting, with most saying a complete smoking ban on the beaches is unrealistic and would be an infringement on smokers' rights.
NEW YORK AND TRI-STATE AREA NEWS
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