The Indoor Vaping Guide

The regulations around indoor vaping in Canada can differ between provinces and territories. The most important thing is to understand provincial regulations and local laws before using a vaping device in public.
 

This guide provides insights into how to vape indoors responsibly in places it’s allowed, exploring the legal and social considerations across different environments, including public and private transport, restaurants, the workplace, and at home.
 

Remember, regulations can vary significantly between provinces, venues, and specific settings, so it’s essential to stay informed and respectful.
 

Many provincial regulations and city bylaws prohibit vaping in enclosed workplaces or enclosed public places. This means the inside of any place, building, structure or vehicle (or any part of them) that is covered by a roof and where the public is ordinarily invited or has access, regardless of whether a fee is charged for entry(1).
 

Enclosed indoor places can include, but are not limited to, the following:

·      Bars

·      Nightclubs

·      Restaurants

·      Cafés

·      Offices

·      Shops

·      Public transport

·      Hospitals
 

For example, in Ontario, you cannot smoke or vape on the patio of any bar or restaurant, including the public areas within nine metres of the patio(2).


British Columbia also has strict regulations mirroring smoking bans. In BC, vaping devices cannot be used in public buildings and workplaces, near doorways or air intakes of public buildings, or on school property(3).

Learn more about vaping laws in Canada, including regulations broken down by province and territory: Everything you need to know about vaping laws in Canada.

Vaping regulations vary across different provinces and territories, indoor and outdoor public spaces, and the areas around them.

Vaping is not permitted on planes. But where you can carry your vaping device when you travel by plane can vary. You can learn everything you need to know about vaping in airports and on planes in our guide, including a breakdown of the rules and vaping areas in different Canadian airports and various airlines’ regulations.

Bars, restaurants and cafés are public places, which means they may have vaping rules applied by the government(6). Vaping is generally banned in enclosed restaurants, bars and cafés.
 

There may be designated outdoor areas for vaping. Always check for signs and ask a member of staff if you aren’t sure.

The legal status of vaping in vehicles in Canada is nuanced, with no nationwide ban on vaping while driving. In Ontario, it is against the law to vape in a motor vehicle if there is someone less than 16 years old inside. This law applies to both moving and stationary vehicles, regardless of whether any window, sunroof, rooftop, door or other feature is open(4).

Vaping is also generally prohibited on most public transport. For example, VIA Rail has a smoke- and vapour-free environment on all of its trains and stations. The use of vaping devices is not permitted on board all trains, inside stations, and in other VIA Rail Canada establishments.

You can learn more in the Vuse guide to where you can vape legally.

Most Canadian sports and entertainment venues have bans on indoor vaping. However, they may offer designated outdoor areas for vaping.

You can learn more in our guide to vaping rules in sports stadiums.

Cinemas and theatres fall under the laws regarding enclosed public spaces, which means you cannot vape when you visit them.

There are no laws about whether you can or can’t vape in your own home. However, you might not be able to vape in certain living situations. These include, but are not limited to, if you rent your house from a landlord or if you live in shared accommodation or a privately owned apartment building.

Private homeowners may have more flexibility, while renters should review their lease agreements or check with landlords before using vaping devices at home.

All Canadian jurisdictions have a formal law or regulation that restricts smoking and vaping in the workplace. Regulations are not the same from province to province, so it is important to consult with your local authorities(5).

If you are unsure about where you can vape at work, you might want to discuss policies with management or human resources.

Responsible vaping is about understanding the rules and respecting the spaces and people around you. Always make sure you have permission before vaping in any shared or private spaces, including homes, vehicles, and other indoor environments.

It’s important to be mindful of the impact your vaping might have on others, especially in enclosed spaces with limited ventilation.

When considering vaping indoors, be prepared to respect established rules and step outside or to a designated area if requested. By approaching vaping with consideration, you can use your vaping device without encountering any issues.

You can explore Vuse vaping devices online, including a selection of disposable vapes and rechargeable devices with different flavoured e-liquids.