Vaping in Public Places in the UK (2025 Guide)

Ever wondered “Is it illegal to vape in a pub?” or “Is it illegal to vape indoors?” You’re not alone. With new vape laws, disposable bans, and the smoking ban still in place, many UK vapers are unsure where they can and can’t use their e-cigs.

This guide breaks down the rules in simple terms, so you know exactly what they are, how they affect you, and which vape kits are still legal in 2025.

The short answer: no, it’s not illegal by UK law. The 2007 indoor smoking ban covers cigarettes and tobacco, but not vaping. That’s why you won’t find a blanket “indoor vaping ban” in UK law. However, most pubs, shops, workplaces, and public venues choose to ban vaping indoors as part of their own policies. So, while you won’t get arrested, you may be asked to stop or leave.

Quick tip: If you’re unsure, ask staff before vaping inside.

Is vaping allowed in pubs? Technically, yes, but in reality, most pubs don’t allow it. Why? Staff can’t always tell the difference between smoking in pubs and vaping, so it’s easier to ban both. Plus, many pubs extend their no-smoking indoors rules to include vaping. So if you’re planning a night out, you’ll probably need to step outside to use your vape.

Vaping at work is another grey area. There’s no nationwide vaping in the workplace UK law, but most companies have clear policies. Employers often ban vaping indoors to keep things simple and professional. So, while it’s not illegal to vape indoors, your boss may not allow it. Always check your workplace rules.

This one’s clear: you can’t vape on buses, trains, or the London Underground. Transport companies treat it the same as smoking. So, if you’re asking, “Can you vape on a bus?” or “Can you vape inside train stations?” the answer is no.

The legal age for vaping is 18. You must be 18 to buy or use vape products in the UK. If you’re wondering, “Can you vape at 16?”, the answer is no, it’s illegal. Retailers face heavy fines for selling to underage vapers. And if you’re caught under 18 with a vape, it could be confiscated.

For details, see Business Companion’s guide on vape sales.

From 1 June 2025, disposable vapes are banned in the UK. That means that popular compact, non-rechargeable, and non-refillable devices are no longer legal to sell.

So if you’re asking:

• Are vapes banned in the UK? – No, but disposables are.
• Are vapes being banned? – Only single-use vapes. Refillable and rechargeable kits are still legal.
• What vapes are illegal in the UK? – Any that are non-TPD compliant, over 2ml tank size, or not rechargeable/refillable.
  
  Check the UK government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill for full details.

The smoking indoors ban UK has been in place since 2007, making smoking in public places illegal. But remember, smoking by law and vaping laws UK are different.

• Smoking in pubs = illegal
• Vaping in pubs = up to the venue
• Smoking in public places = prohibited
• Vaping indoors UK law = not banned, but restricted by venue policies

Even if it’s legal, vaping indoors can annoy others. Here are some simple tips:

• Don’t vape at the door where smoke drifts inside.
• Avoid vaping near kids or non-vapers.
• Use low-vapour devices for discreet clouds.

With disposables banned, UK vapers are switching to refillable pod kits. These save money and are fully legal. Check out these picks from Greet Vape:

• Bloody Bar 60K 4-in-1 Kit – swap pods for 60K puffs and recharge.
• Lost Mary 4-in-1 Pod Kit – discreet, sleek, and pub-friendly.
• IVG Air 2400 Puffs – fruity, cost-saving, and TPD compliant.

So, is vaping indoors illegal in the UK? No, but most pubs, workplaces, and transport companies ban it anyway. The key is always to check the local rules. And with single-use vapes banned, it’s time to switch to refillable kits. They’re cheaper, legal, and available at Greet Vape, offering genuine and affordable vapes for sale for UK vapers.

Stay informed, stay respectful, and vape smart in 2025.

Is it illegal to vape indoors UK?

No, it’s not against the law, but most indoor places like offices, buses, and shops don’t allow vaping. Always check the signs or ask first before using your vape.

Are you allowed to vape in pubs?

There’s no law stopping it, but pubs usually make their own rules. Most pubs don’t allow vaping inside, so you’ll likely need to step outside to vape.

When does the vape ban start?

The UK banned disposable vapes from 1 June 2025. Shops can’t sell them, but you can still purchase refillable or reusable vapes, which are permitted and legal.

Can you vape inside restaurants?

Restaurants set their own rules. Most don’t allow vaping indoors to keep the air clean for customers. If unsure, politely ask staff before you start using your vape.

What happens if you are caught vaping in the UK under 18?

If you’re under 18, police or teachers may take your vape away. Shops selling vapes to underage buyers can face big fines. The law aims to protect young people.