Is Vaping Allowed in Pubs?

In 2004, Ireland became the first country in the world to ban smoking in public spaces, including workplaces, bars and restaurants. This however does not extend to e-cigarette use. To adjust to the new regulations, many pubs and bars provided outdoor spaces for adult nicotine consumers to smoke. This guide explains the Irish laws around vaping in pubs, bars and restaurants.

Can you vape in the pub?

Unlike smoking, vaping in Irish pubs is not prohibited by law. However, rules are usually decided by the pub's landlord or ownership group. Most pubs have an outdoor smoking area, and popular pub chains have set their own policies regarding vaping.

There are a few common approaches from pubs; vapes are generally either:

• Banned inside – no vaping anywhere on pub premises (go to the outside smoking area, which may be on the street).
• Allowed inside – vaping is allowed freely inside.
• Allowed inside with some boundaries – vaping is permitted in designated areas or with rules.

The best approach to vaping in pubs

When visiting a pub, it is best to assume that vaping is prohibited inside unless expressly stated otherwise. Many pubs have signs outlining their smoking policy without mentioning e-cigarettes, so it is always best to ask the manager or staff about their policies. For those pubs that allow vaping, it is essential to be respectful to other customers and choose a device that doesn't produce large vapour clouds. For more information about vaping in Ireland, see our indoor vaping guide, our guide on where you can vape or visit our FAQs page to find answers to common vaping questions.