When first introduced onto the market, vaping was a great way to continue enjoying the sensation of ‘smoking’ but without the risks carried with smoking and to be able to do it wherever you wanted. Now, due to recently invoked legislation, that’s not always the case.
Take a look at our handy guide to work out where you can and can’t use your vape in public areas around the world.
Currently, in the UK there is no law banning vaping in public places. While the legislation did tighten up laws around the production and selling of vape products earlier in 2017, there has been no introduction banning the use of vapes in public places. Vaping is generally banned on most public transport systems including the London Underground and most train platforms. Like smoking, you are not able to vape in airports in the UK.
Individual business owners are to use their discretion around whether they will allow vaping in their establishments.
While the sales of e-cigarettes and vaping products varies from country to country, the rule of thumb when traveling in Europe is that vaping is generally allowed wherever you can smoke. You are likely to find attitudes to where is considered ok to smoke a little different in each country, including areas such as a public square and beaches. For example, in Portugal vaping is banned in public areas.
In some countries, the purchase of vapes and e-liquids is highly restricted, including Denmark and Finland where the selling of any liquids containing Nicotine is not allowed.
Like most laws in the US, where you can and cannot vape varies hugely by State, and even within the state, there are varying laws on whether places like bars and restaurants are covered, so it’s always best to check first. So rather than go through all 52 states, here are some highlights…
States, where there are no regulations around indoor vaping at all, are Nebraska, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Tennessee.
In California, vaping is included under the smoking ban – and do be aware – California’s ‘fresh air’ laws are pretty wide-reaching, and in some localities, will include pretty much everywhere that is outdoors, including areas such as bus stops and shopping areas.
North Carolina: There is no regulation on any bars and restaurants.
One thing to watch out for – in many states the minimum age that you can buy e-cigarettes and vape products is 21.
Be careful when vaping in Asia as laws around vaping can vary dramatically, from being no restrictions on sales at all to outright bans, so tread carefully. If you’re traveling through Asia, tread even more carefully, as you may find that laws change as you change countries. Here are some highlights. Vaping has recently been legalised in Dubai and Bahrain.
Complete Bans: Brunei, East Timor, Thailand, Singapore, Oman and Qatar.
While the enforcement of these bans varies by country, if you vape there – you are technically breaking the law, and in some, the penalties can be pretty severe. As with all laws, they can change regularly so it’s always worth checking before you vape.
A little like the USA, laws in Australia vary by state and region, though the sands seem to be shifting as some areas start to recognize vaping as a viable smoking cessation method. Here are the main highlights.
Western Australia: Generally, the actual sale of vape products is banned in Western Australia, although you are allowed to bring products back from other areas where there are fewer restrictions.
Queensland: The use of vapes containing nicotine is illegal.
New South Wales, Southern Australia, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory: The use of vapes and e-cigs are legal.
Vitoria: You will need a medical license for any vape containing nicotine.
Again, caution is advised when choosing to vape in a public place – always ask first.
The majority of Africa is unregulated when it comes to vaping, with a couple of notable exceptions. South Africa has banned e-liquids which contain nicotine and Egypt prohibits the selling of vape gear – but it’s fine to use your own, so stock up before you go.
Like Africa, there are a few restrictions on vaping in most South American and Central American countries. While a few have restricted the sale of products, you’re pretty much ok to use them. Again though, caution is advised as laws change regularly.
If you need more info on vaping or want to know more on devices, please see our vape device guide and our vaping infographics.
