In the eyes of North Sydney mayor Jilly Gibson, "NS" doesn't just stand for the name of her home, but also for "no smoking". By this time next year, she wants to see "NS. NS." stickers everywhere, on doors and letterboxes.

North Sydney Council this week unanimously passed Cr Gibson's recommendation to make its CBD one of the first smoke-free business districts in Australia.

Smokers will be forced off the streets of North Sydney. Credit:Louise Kennerley

"Cigarettes are not only bad for smokers; their cigarette butts litter our streets and the secondhand smoke is detrimental to everyone’s health," the mayor's minute says.

"It is important that we create a safe environment for our community where everyone can enjoy our outdoor open spaces."