If you’re a vaper in the UK, you might be wondering: Is vaping allowed in pubs? The short answer is—it depends on the pub. Unlike smoking, which is banned indoors under the 2007 smoking ban (part of the Public Health Act 2006), vaping is not illegal in enclosed public spaces. However, this doesn’t mean you can vape freely in every pub.
Each pub has the right to set its own vaping policy, which means rules can vary depending on where you go. Some major pub chains, like JD Wetherspoon and Greene King, have completely banned indoor vaping, treating it the same as smoking.
Others may allow vaping in designated areas, especially outdoor sections. Local councils also have a say, with places like the London Borough of Hackney and Salford City setting their own vaping regulations.
Since there’s no universal rule, it’s always best to check a pub’s vaping policy before using your e-cigarette indoors. In this guide, we’ll explore the UK vaping laws, how pubs decide their policies, and what you need to know before vaping in public places.
UK Vaping Laws vs. Smoking Laws
Many people assume that vaping indoors follows the same rules as smoking, but that’s not the case. Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, including pubs, under the 2007 Smoking Ban, which is part of the Public Health Act 2006.
However, vaping is not covered by this law, meaning there is no legal ban on vaping indoors.
Even though vaping is allowed by law, pub owners have the right to ban it on their premises. This is why vaping rules in pubs vary—some allow it in specific areas, while others treat it the same as smoking and ban it entirely.
The Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 introduced rules on nicotine vapor products, focusing on safety and labeling rather than usage restrictions. Organizations like Public Health England (PHE) support vaping as a harm reduction tool, stating that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking.
Despite this, concerns about second-hand vapor exposure and the rise of disposable vapes have led to stricter policies in some areas.
Local councils can also impose their own vaping restrictions. For example, London Borough of Hackney, Salford City, and Nottingham City have introduced rules limiting vaping in public spaces.
This means that even though there’s no national vaping ban, some councils and pub owners have created their own policies to regulate its use.
With these mixed regulations, it’s always best to check both pub policies and local council rules before vaping indoors.
Pub Vaping Policies: Do All Pubs Allow It?
When it comes to vaping in pubs, there is no single rule that applies everywhere. Pub owners have full control over their vaping policies, which means that some places allow it, while others have completely banned it.
Many well-known pub chains, such as JD Wetherspoon, Greene King, and Fuller’s Brewery, have strict no-vaping policies. These pubs treat electronic cigarettes the same as traditional smoking and do not allow vaping inside their venues.
On the other hand, some independent pubs or smaller chains may be more flexible, especially if they have designated vaping areas.
Other major hospitality businesses, like Stonegate Pub Company and Marston’s PLC, have inconsistent vaping policies. While some of their locations allow discreet vaping indoors, others follow a complete vaping ban in pubs. This lack of consistency can make it confusing for customers who vape.
Even within the same pub chain, indoor vaping rules can differ based on the local council’s policies and the pub owner’s decision. Some pubs may allow vaping in separate lounge areas or outdoor beer gardens, while others prohibit it entirely.
Because of these inconsistent rules, it’s always a good idea to ask pub staff or check the pub’s website before assuming that vaping is allowed.
How to Find Out If a Pub Allows Vaping?
Since vaping rules in pubs vary from place to place, it’s always best to check before using your e-cigarette indoors. Here are some simple ways to find out if vaping is allowed in a pub:
1. Check Online for Vaping Policies
Many pubs list their vaping regulations on their websites or social media pages. Large pub chains like JD Wetherspoon, Greene King, and Fuller’s Brewery often have official policies posted online. If you’re unsure, searching for pub vaping rules before you visit can save you from any awkward situations.
2. Ask the Pub Staff
If you can’t find the information online, the easiest way to know if vaping is allowed is to ask the pub staff directly. Bartenders and managers are familiar with the pub’s indoor vaping rules and can tell you if there are any restrictions.
Even if a pub generally doesn’t allow vaping indoors, they might make exceptions for discreet vaping or low-vapor e-liquids.
3. Look for Designated Vaping Areas
Some pubs that ban indoor vaping still allow it in specific outdoor sections like beer gardens, terraces, or smoking areas. If you’re at a pub and unsure about the rules, check if there’s a designated vaping area before using your electronic cigarette.
Because pub vaping policies are not the same everywhere, it’s always better to confirm before vaping indoors.
Vaping in Clubs: Is It Different from Pubs?
If you enjoy a night out, you might wonder whether vaping in clubs follows the same rules as in pubs. The answer? It depends on the venue. While many pubs and bars have strict no-vaping policies, nightclubs often have even tighter restrictions on indoor vaping due to crowd density and ventilation concerns.
1. More Restrictions in Clubs
Unlike pubs, where some locations allow discreet vaping, most nightclubs enforce a complete vaping ban indoors. This is mainly due to the closed environment, flashing lights, and dense crowds, which make it difficult for staff to monitor vaping behavior.
Many clubs worry about large clouds of vapor affecting visibility or disturbing non-vapers on the dance floor.
2. Some Clubs May Allow Discreet Vaping
While strict vaping policies exist, some clubs may allow vaping in designated areas, similar to how some pubs have outdoor vaping sections. A few venues might tolerate small, discreet puffs, especially if you use low-vapor e-liquids or nicotine salt-based devices. However, this varies from club to club.
3. Check Club Staff Policies
Just like in pubs, it’s always best to ask club staff before vaping indoors. Club managers and security teams set their own vaping rules, and breaking them could lead to removal from the venue. Some clubs even have clear signs banning vaping, so it’s important to check first.
Overall, vaping indoors in clubs is usually more restricted than in pubs, but rules differ by venue. Always check the club’s vaping policy to avoid any issues during your night out.
Vaping Etiquette: How to Vape Respectfully in Pubs?
Even if a pub allows vaping, it’s important to follow proper vaping etiquette to ensure a comfortable environment for everyone. Just like smoking rules, vaping in public places should be done with consideration for others. Here are some key tips to vape respectfully in pubs:
1. Use Discreet E-Liquids
If you’re vaping indoors, choose an e-liquid with low vapor production to avoid creating large clouds. A good option is a 50/50 VG/PG ratio e-liquid, which produces less visible vapor while still delivering nicotine satisfaction. This helps reduce irritation for non-vapers and makes vaping less noticeable.
2. Avoid Vaping in Food Areas
Just like smoking isn’t allowed near food, vaping in food areas can be seen as impolite. Many pubs prefer that customers step outside or use a designated vaping section rather than vaping near diners. Being respectful of pub rules and other guests will help keep vaping policies more flexible.
3. Be Mindful of Second-Hand Vapor Risks
While studies from organizations like Public Health England (PHE) show that second-hand vapor exposure is significantly less harmful than second-hand smoke, some people are still uncomfortable around it. If you’re in a crowded pub, be aware of those around you and avoid blowing vapor directly at others.
By following these simple vaping etiquette tips, you can ensure that pub vaping policies remain open and welcoming to vapers, while also being considerate of pub-goers who don’t vape.
Future Vaping Regulations: What’s Changing?
As vaping becomes more popular, UK vaping laws are constantly evolving. While public vaping laws are currently less strict than smoking regulations, new rules may further limit where and how people can vape in the future.
1. Possible Updates to UK Vaping Laws
The UK Parliament is actively reviewing vaping regulations, especially due to concerns over youth vaping and the rise of disposable vapes. Some local councils, such as those in London Borough of Hackney, Salford City, and Nottingham City, have already introduced stricter public vaping laws to limit indoor vaping in public spaces.
2. Potential Ban on Disposable Vapes by 2025
One of the biggest upcoming changes is the potential ban on disposable vapes by 2025. These devices, often linked to environmental concerns and underage vaping, are under heavy scrutiny.
The UK government is considering new measures that could restrict their sale or introduce tighter regulations on nicotine strength and packaging.
3. Global Vaping Regulations: How the UK Compares?
Compared to other countries, the UK still has relatively lenient vaping laws. The European Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) regulates e-cigarette sales across the EU, enforcing rules on nicotine levels, packaging, and advertising.
Meanwhile, Australia has some of the strictest vaping laws, requiring a prescription for nicotine e-liquids and heavily restricting vape sales.
With more vaping restrictions being considered, it’s essential for vapers to stay informed about UK vaping laws and be prepared for potential new regulations on public vaping and disposable vapes.
Conclusion: What Should Vapers Do?
With vaping regulations in pubs varying across the UK, it’s important for vapers to be aware of the rules before using their e-cigarette indoors. Unlike smoking, vaping isn’t banned by law, but individual pub owners and local councils set their own vaping policies.
1. Always Check Pub Vaping Policies
Before vaping in a pub, check their official website, social media, or ask the staff about their indoor vaping rules. Many major chains like JD Wetherspoon, Greene King, and Fuller’s Brewery have banned it, while others may allow it in designated vaping areas.
2. Respect Pub Owners’ Rules
Even if UK vaping laws don’t prohibit indoor vaping, pub owners have the final say. Respecting their policies helps avoid conflicts and ensures that vapers are welcome in pubs that still allow it.
Following vaping etiquette—such as using low-vapor e-liquids and avoiding vaping in food areas—can also help maintain a positive image of vaping in public.
3. Stay Updated on UK Vaping Restrictions
With new vaping regulations being considered, including a potential ban on disposable vapes by 2025, vapers should stay informed about any changes to public vaping laws.
Keeping up with updates from the UK Parliament, Public Health England (PHE), and local councils will help ensure compliance with future vaping laws.
By checking pub policies, respecting the rules, and staying informed about vaping laws, vapers can continue to enjoy their experience without any issues.