As a smoker, vaper, or consumer of tobacco alternative products such as vapes, you will have noticed fundamental changes taking place to the vaping and smoking regulations and laws recently.
The laws are governed and created toward two distinct categories: consumers and manufacturers or retailers. While the regulations for the latter are now well-established, the UK’s consumer vaping laws are constantly evolving.
Gray Area
With a certain ambiguity surrounding the ever-evolving consumer laws, some of you might be left with a few basic questions that need answering. Is vaping allowed in restaurants, for example, or can you vape on a train?
In other words, while most people are aware that smoking tobacco is firmly outlawed in public places, where does that leave vaping? Through this short blog post, we are going to take a look.
To that end, we are here to clear a few things up with this NEAFS guide to vaping UK. More specifically, where you can vape in the UK. Let’s get to it.
The Basics: Vaping UK Laws (2024)
- You must be at least 18 years old to purchase and use a vape in the UK.
- Vape cartridges cannot contain more than 2ml of e-liquid or exceed 20mg of nicotine per ml.
- Vaping policies in public spaces are determined by the property owner, with many places including vapes in their “no smoking” rules.
- All disposable vapes are now banned.
Public Places and Vaping
One of the more common questions we receive via email is, “Can you vape in public places?” Ultimately, the answer depends largely on the location in question and the rules set by the property owner.
In many (if not most) cases, public spaces have adapted their own policies to include vaping in their smoking restrictions. Bus stations, for example, may have banned it, while smoking in the high street is usually permitted. In short, while some locations may allow it, others might not.
We hate to be vague, but it really isn’t a question we can answer with exact specifics. Either way, it’s always wise to check the specific rules of the place you’re visiting. Generally speaking, if you are wandering around a town centre, park, or random street, you are allowed to vape.
Vaping in Restaurants, Coffee Shops, and Pubs
Unlike traditional smoking, there isn’t a universal prohibition on vaping in establishments like pubs, coffee shops, or restaurants. However, many restaurant chains in the UK, such as KFC, McDonald’s, Caffè Nero, and Starbucks, have chosen to prohibit vaping on their premises.
While some independent venues and pubs may be more lenient, it’s best to inquire about their policy beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings. Ultimately, we would answer the question, “Is vaping allowed in restaurants?” with a very cautious yes, depending on the establishment’s rules.
Vaping at Concerts
Again, the rules for vaping at concerts can vary, but many of the larger venues tend to prohibit it. Major locations like the NEC in Birmingham, for example, or Wembley Stadium, do not permit vaping anywhere on the premises. Smaller venues might have different policies. Once again, we suggest you check with the venue directly.
Vaping at Sports Events
Just like concerts, venue owners usually set the rules for vaping at sports events. Many major sports stadiums, such as Old Trafford and the Emirates Stadium, have strict policies against vaping, aligning with their smoking bans. Smaller clubs may have varying rules, so checking in advance is advisable.
Vaping in Hospitals
In Scotland, a comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes covers not only hospital buildings but also the surrounding grounds (except for NHS Lothian Trust, that is). In England and Wales, there isn’t a widespread ban as such, but many hospitals enforce their own rules against vaping on-site.
Vaping on Public Transport
While most forms of public transport do not allow vaping – including trains and buses – the question, “Can you vape on a train?” is generally met with a firm no, as vaping is prohibited to ensure the comfort of all passengers, many of whom do not enjoy secondary vape. It should be noted that even station platforms often fall under these restrictions. To that end, it may be best to wait until you’re outside the station to vape.
Vaping Outside Schools
Most schools would prefer you not vape close to the premises, especially during times when young people are in the vicinity (such as closing time). Some schools have no smoking or vaping signs outside the main gates – although that is a polite request more than a rule, as anywhere outside of a public school is public property.
Vaping While Driving
Vaping while driving is certainly not illegal, but it can be risky if the vapour obstructs your vision. As a result, the police can stop you if they believe your vaping is impairing your ability to drive safely. Joyfully creating rapid-fire smoke rings before a passing police officer may not be the brightest idea and is likely to cause being pulled over. If that happens, you could face fines (and even points) on your licence.
Vaping on Planes
Some airports offer designated smoking areas where you can vape before boarding, so it’s helpful to know these locations in advance. Vaping on an actual flight is most firmly prohibited, however.
Vaping on Ferries or Cruises
When it comes to ferries and cruises, vaping is typically allowed in designated smoking areas. Most ships provide specific outdoor spaces for vaping, but it’s usually not permitted in cabins or on balconies.
Vaping on Holiday
This is another one that depends entirely on the country you are visiting. While vaping in a Bolivian high street is probably fine, doing the same on a Brussels bus may cause issues.
That aside, some countries like Thailand and Qatar have strict nationwide bans on vapes, which is odd, you might agree, considering the former allows public cannabis smoking. Other countries like Ireland have recently clamped down on public vaping. Either way, check the regulations of your destination before you travel.
Bottom Line
When it comes to vaping in the UK, exercising common sense and basic research are the best way forward. Always check the rules of the place you’re visiting, whether it’s a restaurant, public transport, or any other venue. Remember, policies can vary, so please stay informed to avoid any inconvenience.
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