Jeff Starkey, of Akron, Ohio, was enjoying a cigar and the action on No. 16 on Wednesday when a woman in the grandstands a few rows away let him know there's a new smoking policy at Augusta National.

Bryan Poole, of Atlanta, has a cigar while on the course. A new policy instituted by Augusta National prohibits smoking in viewing stands and designated viewing areas. (Elizabeth Adams/Staff)

She shouted, "Can't you see that sign?" in front of everyone in the stands, said a sheepish Mr. Starkey, who apologized and snuffed his smoke.

Viewing stands and designated seating areas have new signs stating that smoking is prohibited, but many patrons, like Mr. Starkey, haven't noticed yet.

"That's wonderful," said Debra Herrin, of Columbia, when she heard about the new policy. She was sitting in a roped-off section on No. 16 with a friend.

The ban makes sense, said Pat Palucki, of Myrtle Beach, S.C., who was seated in the stands at No. 16 with her husband, Ron.

"I think more and more people are not smoking, so more are offended.

"I realize you're outside, but it's irritating. The seats are close in here," she said.

As they walked toward the No. 7 tee, Bryan Poole, of Atlanta, and his friends Chris Carver and John Demonica were smoking Macanudo cigars, which they bought just outside the course. They were not aware of the change in policy.

"I have no problem with that," Poole said. "I certainly understand because you're in a captive area and not walking."