Can You Vape Inside
Whether you can vape indoors depends entirely on the location, the building owner’s policy, and any applicable laws. In the UK, vaping is not banned by law in indoor public places in the same way smoking is. However, that doesn’t mean it’s always permitted. Most venues—including restaurants, pubs, shops, public transport, and workplaces—have their own rules, and many choose to prohibit vaping indoors to avoid complaints, confusion, or disruption.
The bottom line is this: just because it’s not illegal doesn’t mean it’s allowed. If you’re unsure, always check for signage or ask a staff member before using your vape indoors.
Public vs Private Indoor Spaces
In public indoor spaces like shopping centres, transport hubs, or hospitals, vaping is almost always banned. These places typically follow strict no-smoking and no-vaping policies to keep the environment comfortable for everyone. Vaping indoors in these settings could lead to being asked to leave, fined, or even removed by security, depending on the location.
Private spaces, like someone’s home or a private event, are different. It’s entirely up to the owner whether vaping is allowed. If you're visiting friends, renting an Airbnb, or attending a gathering, always check before assuming it's fine to vape indoors. Many people are still sensitive to vapour or may have concerns about smell, alarms, or health.
Indoor Workplaces
Workplaces are free to set their own policies on vaping. Some companies allow vaping in designated break areas or specific indoor zones, but most have adopted a no-vaping rule inside the building. This mirrors the existing rules for smoking and is often put in place to avoid distractions, maintain professionalism, and protect air quality.
If you vape at work, speak with your manager or check your employee handbook. Vaping in toilets, corridors, or at your desk could breach company policy—even if it’s not breaking the law.
Bars, Pubs, and Clubs
Some people assume vaping is allowed in pubs or nightclubs because of the relaxed atmosphere, but this varies from place to place. Many venues, especially chains, treat vaping the same as smoking and prohibit it indoors to avoid complaints from other patrons. Others may allow it discreetly—particularly if the space is already loud, crowded, or open to interpretation.
Even if vaping is technically allowed, it’s important to use common sense. Blowing large clouds across a room, using strong-smelling flavours, or vaping near food can quickly cause friction with staff or other guests.
Hotels, Rentals, and Indoor Accommodation
Hotels and short-term rentals often have strict rules about vaping indoors, treating it the same way as smoking. Many properties include vaping in their no-smoking policy, and breaking the rules could lead to cleaning fees or even cancellation of your stay. If you’re staying somewhere new, always ask before using your vape indoors. Balconies, patios, or designated smoking areas are typically the safest places to use your device.
Can Vaping Indoors Trigger Smoke Alarms?
Yes, vape vapour can trigger smoke detectors—especially optical ones that detect changes in air particles. Even a small cloud in a confined space can set off alarms, especially in hotels, offices, or school toilets. Setting off an alarm can result in fines, evacuations, or disciplinary action, so always be cautious when vaping indoors—even if you believe it’s allowed.
Final Thoughts
You can vape indoors in some private settings, but in most public or shared indoor spaces, it’s either discouraged or outright banned. UK law doesn’t currently ban vaping indoors, but property owners, employers, and venues are free to set their own rules—and most do. To avoid conflict or unwanted attention, always check the policy before vaping inside. When in doubt, step outside or use a designated area—it’s the most reliable way to stay respectful and avoid trouble.