Is it illegal to vape in a taxi & can I be fined for using my e-cigarette? Uber & TFL cab rules on electronic cigarettes

SMOKING was banned from enclosed public places across the UK in 2007 but with the rise in popularity of vaping, does it meet the same criteria?

We explain how vaping in UK taxis could get you into the same hot water.

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Is it illegal to vape in a taxi?

Yes, it is illegal to vape in a taxi in the UK.

Since the introduction of the smoking ban in July 2007, smoking has been prohibited in enclosed public places across the UK, including workplaces, pubs, restaurants, and public transport.

Cabs are considered enclosed public spaces too, where exposure to smoke can pose significant health risks to you and those sharing the space with you.

The outright ban includes both traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes, which means that no form of smoking or vaping is allowed at any time in taxis.

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The regulation is typically enforced through the mandatory display of "No Smoking" signs in all licensed vehicles.

The signs are there to make it clear that the no-smoking rule applies to all occupants.

In 2015, Transport for London issued a statement clarifying the position for London taxi and private hire vehicles.

It said that the rules applied to drivers as well as passengers.

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TfL added: "The TfL No-Smoking Policy includes e-cigarettes and vape sticks which have been prohibited on all rail, underground and bus services.

"This has also been extended to include taxi and private hire services."

Uber states under its property damage guidelines that smoking is not allowed.

Can I be fined for vaping in a cab?

Yes, you can be fined for vaping in a cab or any other form of licensed vehicle where smoking and vaping are prohibited.

Penalties for vaping in a cab can include a Fixed Penalty Notice, which start at £50 depending on the severity.

The rules also apply to drivers as well as passengers

The fine can be reduced if paid within 15 days of issue.

In more serious cases, or upon repeated offences, the fine can escalate to a maximum of £200 if the matter goes to court.

But it's not only passengers who need to be clued up on the smoking rules inside a taxi.

In addition to fines for smoking, there are penalties for drivers who fail to display the required "No Smoking" signs in their vehicle.

Violators can receive a fixed penalty notice of £200, which is reduced to £150 if paid promptly within 15 days.

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Alternatively, if prosecuted and convicted in court for not displaying these signs, the maximum fine can reach £1,000.

Drivers of taxis and private hire vehicles are accountable for maintaining a smoke-free environment and ensuring that the mandatory signage is clearly visible to all passengers.