Most adult nicotine consumers understand that vaping is often treated the same as smoking when it comes to use in enclosed public spaces in the UK.

While no UK law bans vaping indoors, most venue owners have rules about vaping in the areas they have jurisdiction over. That includes public transport, airports, restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and cinemas, many of which have strict vaping policies.

Is it illegal to vape in the cinema?

The rules around using e-cigarettes and other vaping devices are not written into the UK law (unlike cigarettes and other tobacco products). Instead, vaping policies are outlined and enforced by individual business or venue owners or the management of corporations responsible for chain companies.

When it comes to using electronic cigarettes, nothing can be taken for granted. With adverts and trailers before the film starts, you can easily be sat in the cinema for up to three hours and, if you smoke or vape regularly, you may ask yourself whether you can vape during this time

The UK ban on vaping in cinemas

Big names in the UK cinema scene (Odeon, Showcase, Vue, etc.) have official company policies on vaping. Using vape devices is not allowed anywhere in the cinema building, including screens, toilets and the lobby. That means you can’t vape at the cinema, whether or not signs are displayed or such a policy exists in writing.

There may be a more flexible approach, especially in smaller, private or independent cinemas, where it’s worth asking management for permission – some private establishments may be more flexible.

Why is vaping at the cinema a problem?

Listening and responding to what your customers say is good practice as a business owner. Cinema-goers once complained about vapour from e-cigarettes obstructing their view of the screen and the smell of e-liquid flavours. Banning vapes is more straightforward for cinema owners than dealing with such complaints.

Learn more about where you can vape in the UK in our complete guide. Find the answers to your frequently vaping questions to put your mind at ease before exploring Vuse vape kits online.