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CHARLOTTE – Most bars and restaurants in North Carolina will be smoke-free by the end of the week, as the state’s smoking ban goes into effect Jan. 2.

This week, many establishments are making some last-minute preparations to get ready for the new requirements.

"We expect business owners to have posted No Smoking Signs and also have removed all ash trays from their establishments,” said Lovemore Masakadza, who is with the Mecklenburg County Health Department. The only places exempt are private, nonprofit clubs, so bars and nightclubs must comply even if they have membership lists.

Corydon Himelberger, general manager of Howl at the Moon, isn’t upset about the changes. “It is an employee health right to go to work and not have smoke blown on you,” he said.

While Howl at the Moon doesn’t have to make many changes, other places still do. Some are building smoking areas outside – like Tavern on the Tracks, which will spend about $1,500 to heat the patio area.

"I'm sure at the very beginning we'll have a little bit of a downfall, but overall, I think, as a society we always adjust and it may open up doors to some new clientele,” said Tavern on the Tracks’ Greg Roderick, who is concerned about an initial loss in business with the new law.

Businesses could be fined up to $200 a day if they’re caught violating the laws. Patrons could face a $50 fine.