Is It Illegal to Vape Indoors in the UK? Rules on Vaping in Public Places

By Neil Goddard

Some of the information in the following blog is based on external, third party sources and is for educational/informational purposes only. Such content is not intended to be representative of the products sold on this website.

It’s been ten years since vaping was introduced in the UK, and since then it has become one of the most popular alternatives to smoking. 3.6 million people now use e-cigarettes in the UK.1 But there is a lot of confusion around where people are and aren’t allowed to vape. While there are strict laws restricting where conventional cigarettes can be smoked, these laws don’t apply to e-cigarettes.

Can You Vape Indoors in the UK?

No, vaping indoors is typically not allowed in the UK.
While there are no specific laws banning vaping indoors, most independent businesses and facilities have their own policies that prohibit vaping indoors. Property owners or managers have the authority to ban vaping on their premises, even if it's not against the law. Adult vapers should always check and adhere to the specific regulations when visiting any premises that is not their own.

Can you vape in indoor public places?

If you're wondering whether you can smoke in indoor public places such as public transport, workplaces, pubs, and restaurants – the answer is generally no. Vaping is often restricted in indoor public places, though this depends on each business and property owner’s individual policy. Discover the typical policies for common public indoor spaces below:

Can You Vape Outdoors in the UK?

Yes, you can vape in most public outdoor spaces in the UK. There is no legal restriction on vaping in outdoor areas, whether that’s on a street or in a public park. However, there are special cases where vaping may not be allowed, even in an outdoor space:

• Public transport: Many forms of public transport do not allow vaping in indoor or outdoor facilities, like on an outdoor train platform.

• Hospitals and medical facilities: Most hospitals and other medical services will not allow vaping anywhere on the site, including in outdoor areas.

• Privately-owned property: As explained for vaping indoors too, property owners have the authority to ban vaping on their property, even if the laws allow it. Make sure to check the policies for the venue or business’ specific policies before vaping.

Vaping Etiquette: Vaping in Public Settings

Whether you are indoors or outdoors, you should always be mindful of the people around you when you are vaping in public spaces. Remember the following vaping etiquette tips when you’re going to use one in public:

• Check for signage: Look for signage on the venue’s vaping rules. Many businesses have their own policies on vaping and will have signs to communicate them.

• Always ask for permission: If there is no clear signage or you are unsure, always check and ask for permission before you use your vape.

• Be considerate: Vapour clouds and smells can be intrusive for others. Step away from the people around.

• Dispose responsibly: Make sure to dispose of any packaging or refill products properly, and throw them away in the appropriate bins.

Read more: How to safely dispose of your vape and other smoke-free alternatives.

Using heated tobacco in public places

Heated tobacco products like IQOS are relatively new in the UK. Because the tobacco is heated but not burned as it is in conventional tobacco products such as cigarettes and cigars, heated tobacco does not fall under the indoor smoking ban. Instead, users should follow the same guidance as vaping in public and always ask beforehand.

 Discover the IQOS ILUMA heat not burn device.

1https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-49798627

2https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vaping-in-public-places-advice-for-employers-and-organisations