Environmental health

Smoke free

The requirement to be smoke free relates to all places to which members of the public have access.

This includes:

  • places of work
  • educational establishments
  • health care services
  • enclosed car parks
  • common areas in residential accommodation
  • private clubs.

Smoke free vehicles includes buses, taxis, company cars, ferries and trains.

Smoke free legislation is not a ban on smoking; it is about where people smoke. The purpose of the law is to protect others from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.

The legislation covers anything that is smoked, including cigarettes, pipes, cigars, herbal cigarettes and water pipes (including shisha, hookah and hubble bubble).

Smoking shelters

There is no need for businesses to provide smoking shelters; however, if they choose to build a shelter, it is likely that appropriate planning permission will be required. Smoking shelters must be permanently substantially open, which means the shelter must have mainly open sides, so that smoke is not trapped.  

Smoking in cars

It is illegal to smoke in a car (or other vehicle) with anyone that is under the age of 18.

Enforcement officers (usually the police) can issue a fixed penalty notice of £50 for each offences. 

Quitting smoking 

We provide a free, evidence-based service, which provides expert advice, information and most importantly support people who want help to stop smoking.

Find out about our stop smoking service

Page last updated: 22 Feb 2023