Vaping indoors isn’t as straightforward as many assume. While it’s often seen as less intrusive than smoking, that doesn’t mean it’s allowed everywhere. Whether you’re at home, in a pub, at work or on public transport, the rules around indoor vaping vary widely—and not knowing them can lead to awkward confrontations or even fines. Understanding the law, property rules and social norms will help you avoid trouble and vape responsibly.
Is It Legal to Vape Indoors?
In the UK, vaping is not covered under the same legal restrictions as smoking. The Smoke-Free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006 ban smoking in enclosed public spaces and workplaces, but they don’t include e-cigarettes. This means that, technically, it’s not illegal to vape indoors in most places—but that doesn’t mean it’s permitted.
The key distinction is that while the law doesn’t prohibit indoor vaping, property owners, employers and businesses have the right to set their own rules. So the legal answer might be yes, but the practical answer often depends on where you are.
Vaping at Home
You can vape freely inside your own home unless your tenancy agreement says otherwise. Some landlords, especially in furnished or shared properties, may ban indoor vaping to protect against vapour residue or strong smells. If you’re renting, it’s worth double-checking your contract.
In shared accommodation or with guests around, it’s always respectful to ask others first. Vapour can linger in small spaces and carry strong scents, especially with flavoured e-liquids.
Vaping in Pubs, Bars and Restaurants
Each business sets its own policy. Some pubs and bars with outdoor areas allow vaping inside, but many treat it the same as smoking and ask customers to use designated outdoor spaces. This is often to avoid annoying other patrons or triggering indoor smoke detectors.
It’s becoming more common for larger chains to restrict indoor vaping entirely, even in venues where smoking areas are provided. If there are no signs displayed, it’s best to ask staff before using your device.
Vaping at Work
Employers can legally allow vaping indoors, but most choose not to. Workplace policies usually treat vaping the same as smoking, requiring staff to use smoking shelters or designated vape areas. Vaping at your desk or in common areas is rarely accepted, especially in customer-facing roles or open-plan offices.
If your workplace hasn’t stated a clear policy, it’s still a good idea to ask HR or management for clarity. Even in more relaxed environments, unexpected vapour clouds can be distracting or unwelcome to others.
Vaping on Public Transport
You can’t vape on trains, buses, the Underground, or in any train station buildings across the UK. Transport for London, National Rail, and major bus operators all have blanket bans on using e-cigarettes indoors or on board. This rule is strictly enforced and applies even in covered platforms or terminals.
The same applies to planes and airports. Vaping is banned in-flight and usually not allowed anywhere inside the terminal except in designated smoking areas.
Vaping in Public Buildings and Shops
Public buildings such as hospitals, libraries, schools and council offices typically do not allow vaping indoors. Supermarkets and retail chains usually ask customers not to vape inside, even if there’s no legal requirement.
Shops that sell vape products may permit it, especially in testing areas, but even that is becoming less common as businesses aim to maintain a neutral environment for all visitors.
Final Word
You can vape inside in many places legally—but whether you shoulddepends on the rules set by property owners and your consideration for others. Always check signage, ask when in doubt, and be respectful of shared spaces. Vaping indoors might seem harmless, but treating it responsibly helps keep it socially acceptable and avoids unnecessary conflict.
