Is It Illegal to Vape Indoors

Is It Illegal to Vape Indoors in the UK?

Vaping indoors is not illegal under UK law. Unlike smoking, which is banned in all enclosed public spaces and workplaces, vaping is not currently covered by the same legislation. That means there’s no blanket legal restriction on using e-cigarettes indoors—but that doesn’t mean it’s always allowed. Individual venues, businesses, and employers are free to set their own rules, and many have chosen to prohibit vaping indoors as a matter of policy.

To avoid misunderstandings or penalties, it’s important to know the difference between what’s legal and what’s permitted by those in charge of the space you’re in.

The Law on Indoor Vaping

The UK’s indoor smoking ban, introduced in 2007, applies specifically to tobacco products. Since e-cigarettes do not involve combustion and don’t contain tobacco, they fall outside the scope of

that law. As a result, there is no legal ban on vaping indoors in private or public buildings—unless the owner or authority in charge sets their own restriction.

Some organisations, like hospitals, train stations, and shopping centres, apply the smoking ban to vaping as well, even though it’s not required by law. Others take a more flexible approach, allowing vaping in designated areas or on a case-by-case basis. The key point is that it’s not illegal, but it can still be prohibited.

Private Property and Business Policies

When it comes to private property—such as pubs, cafés, offices, shops, or gyms—the owner or manager can decide whether vaping is allowed indoors. Many businesses, especially large chains, have a no-vaping policy across all their premises. This is often done to maintain a smoke-free image, avoid customer complaints, or prevent confusion about what’s being inhaled.

In workplaces, employers can set vaping rules as part of their health and safety policies. Some allow vaping in break rooms or designated zones, while others restrict it to outside smoking areas. These rules are enforceable through contracts or staff handbooks, but they don’t carry criminal penalties.

So while you won’t be arrested for vaping indoors, you can still be asked to leave, fined, or even banned from the premises if you ignore the rules.

Public Transport and Government Buildings

Vaping is almost always banned on public transport in the UK. Trains, buses, taxis, and underground systems have clear policies that prohibit vaping inside vehicles and stations. These bans are not based on criminal law but are part of transport authority policies, and breaking them can lead to ejection or fines.

Government buildings, schools, NHS properties, and airports also typically ban vaping indoors. These rules are enforced at the institutional level and treated the same way as smoking bans in terms of expectations and discipline, even though the legal framework is different.

Evolving Public Attitudes Toward Indoor Vaping

When vaping first became popular, many people viewed it as harmless compared to smoking. Early adopters vaped freely in pubs, offices, and even public buildings. But over time, attitudes have shifted. As more studies emerged on second-hand vapour and its effect on indoor air quality, many organisations and the general public began treating vaping with the same caution as smoking.

Now, even though there’s no legal ban on indoor vaping, many spaces treat it as unwelcome—especially in areas where families, children, or food are involved. Social norms are catching up with health policies, and in some places, vaping indoors may be seen as inappropriate even when technically allowed.

Is Second-Hand Vapour a Concern?

One reason indoor vaping is increasingly restricted is due to concerns about second-hand vapour, also known as environmental vapour. While it’s not the same as second-hand smoke from cigarettes, it still contains trace amounts of nicotine, flavourings, and fine particles, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

Public health bodies, including the NHS and WHO, suggest that more research is needed—but recommend caution when vaping around non-users. This precautionary approach has led many indoor venues to ban vaping outright to protect customers, staff, and vulnerable groups, even without a legal requirement to do so.

Enforcement and Penalties

Because there’s no law banning indoor vaping in most settings, you can’t be fined or prosecuted just for doing it—unless you refuse to follow a venue’s policy. In that case, the business or building owner has the right to ask you to leave, and in extreme cases, ban you from returning. In workplaces, breaking vaping policies might lead to disciplinary action under internal conduct rules.

So while there’s no legal penalty for vaping indoors in general, ignoring house rules can still carry consequences—especially in professional or public environments.

Discreet Vaping: Is It Worth the Risk?

Some vapers try to get around indoor bans by stealth vaping—taking small puffs and exhaling vapour slowly to avoid detection. While this might work in low-risk settings, it can backfire. If you’re caught, it could lead to embarrassment, confrontation, or even being removed from the venue.

In most cases, it’s better to ask first or step outside, rather than risk vaping where it's not clearly permitted. Vaping etiquette is increasingly important, and being respectful of other people’s space and expectations helps ensure vaping stays socially acceptable.

Final Word

Vaping indoors is not illegal in the UK, but that doesn’t mean it’s always allowed. Property owners, employers, and transport operators have the right to set their own rules, and many choose to treat vaping like smoking. Always check signage or ask before using your vape indoors. Respecting the rules helps avoid awkward situations—and ensures vaping remains accepted in more places over time.