The short answer is no, there is no blanket UK law that makes vaping indoors illegal in all places. The national smoke-free laws target smoking tobacco in enclosed public places and workplaces, not vaping. That said, most indoor spaces set their own policies and many do not allow vaping inside. Think of it as a venue rule rather than a universal criminal offence.
The law at a glance
Vaping is legal for adults but permission to vape indoors depends on the owner or operator of the premises. If a venue bans vaping you must follow the policy or you may be refused service or asked to leave. Some settings also use local byelaws or conditions of entry that make non-compliance a finable matter, especially on transport networks.
Workplaces and offices
There is no legal requirement for employers to ban vaping indoors, yet most do for simplicity and to avoid complaints. Many adopt a single “no smoking, no vaping” rule and provide external areas for breaks. If your employer allows indoor vaping it will usually be limited to designated rooms with clear ventilation standards and a behaviour policy.
Pubs, restaurants and shops
Hospitality businesses choose their own approach. A growing number treat vaping like smoking and ask customers to step outside. Some may allow low-key mouth-to-lung devices away from dining areas while banning cloud-heavy sub ohm kits. Always check the signage near the door or ask staff before you start.
Public transport and travel
Airlines ban vaping on planes. Airports often allow vaping only in signed external areas. Trains, trams and buses generally prohibit vaping throughout the network including platforms and shelters. Taxis and private hire cars are usually at the driver’s discretion but expect most to say no. Hotels vary by brand: bedrooms may be classed as non-smoking and non-vaping, with cleaning fees for any breach.
Hospitals, schools and public buildings
NHS trusts typically ban vaping inside buildings and in many cases across the grounds. Schools, colleges and universities almost always prohibit vaping indoors and may extend the rule to all campus areas. Local authority buildings tend to mirror NHS-style policies.
Homes, rentals and student accommodation
You can vape in your own home unless your tenancy agreement says otherwise. Many landlords and student halls restrict smoking and vaping indoors to protect decor and reduce complaints. Check the contract to avoid deposit deductions.
Cars and private vehicles
There is no UK-wide offence for vaping in a private car. If your windows fog up and your view is compromised you could still face careless driving charges, so keep windows cracked, use lower-vapour devices and avoid big clouds when driving.
What happens if you ignore a sign
In most venues you will be asked to stop or to step outside. Persisting can lead to refusal of service or removal from the premises. On transport networks you may face a fixed penalty under byelaws. It is rarely worth the argument.
Practical etiquette that keeps you welcome
Ask first if you cannot see a clear sign. Favour small discreet devices indoors. Avoid vaping near food counters, queues or crowded spaces. Keep exhale low and away from others. Offer to step outside if anyone raises a concern. Good etiquette reduces complaints and helps venues that still allow vaping keep that privilege in place.
For business owners and managers
Write a short policy that states whether vaping is allowed, where it is allowed, and how staff should handle complaints. Use the same age-of-sale signage style as your smoking notices. Train teams to apply the rule consistently so customers get a clear message.
For adult vapers looking for value
If you are 18 or over and want larger bottles that stretch your budget when you are at permitted venues, explore our full 100ml vape juice collection with flavours suited to everyday use.
Learn more about the rules
For deeper guidance on UK vaping rules, including TPD limits, age-of-sale, tax changes and safety documents, visit our Vape Regulations and Law hub which brings all compliance topics together in one place.
Final thoughts
Vaping indoors is not universally illegal in the UK, yet many places ban it through their own policies. Check the sign, ask if unsure, follow the house rules and use considerate etiquette. That approach keeps you on the right side of the law and welcome in more spaces.
When you need to check rules for cars, taxis and company vehicles, read can you vape while driving. If a venue asks for proof of age before allowing outdoor use, point them to what is the legal age to vape.
If the question involves schools or youth clubs, the outcomes in what happens if you are caught vaping under 18 in the uk help set expectations. For signage and staff policy wording, keep can you vape at 16 on hand.