Workplace & Public Etiquette
There’s no nationwide legal ban on vaping in public outdoor spaces — you can generally vape on streets and in parks unless a specific venue or local authority says otherwise.
There is no law that automatically bans vaping indoors, but most businesses set their own rules — many pubs, restaurants, cafés and shops prohibit vaping inside just as they do smoking. Always check signage or ask staff first.
Yes — vaping is not included in the UK smoke-free laws, so employers can decide their own policies. Some workplaces allow vaping in certain areas (e.g., outside or designated zones), while others ban it indoors completely.
Most public transport services in the UK (like trains and buses) prohibit vaping inside vehicles and stations/terminal areas, similar to smoking rules. Always assume it’s banned unless clearly permitted.
Even though there’s no national law on vaping, many hospitals, schools, theatres and similar venues treat vaping like smoking and prohibit it on their premises. Always check venue policies.
Be respectful — don’t vape near people who might be bothered by vapour, blow vapour away from others (especially children or non-vapers), and move aside if someone objects. Good etiquette makes others more tolerant.
While there’s no direct UK nationwide law fining people just for vaping illegally, some specific services (e.g., Transport for London) include vaping bans with penalties if you break their rules.
Legally vaping is treated differently from smoking, but many venues treat both the same for comfort and etiquette reasons — so it’s safest to act as though vaping is not automatically allowed anywhere smoking isn’t.
There’s no automatic legal right to vape indoors, so individual buildings often include vaping in their “no smoking” or “no vaping” policies — follow posted rules.
Many workplaces expect vapers to be considerate — avoid vaping in confined spaces, respect colleagues who don’t want vapour around them, and use designated outdoor or private areas if provided.
