smoking

Denver Airport Smoking

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If you’re flying through Denver Airport and wondering where to smoke or what laws are in place regarding smoking in Denver Airport’s terminals, you’ve come to the right place. In Denver Airport and its terminals, smoking is prohibited in all areas of the public concourses including gates, ticketing areas, shops/restaurants, and any other public area.

The only exceptions are designated outdoor smoking areas located on both levels of the Jeppesen Terminal which are clearly marked with signs directing passengers to these areas. Smoking is also prohibited in all other areas of the airport such as rental car facilities and parking garages, so please be sure to adhere to the laws regarding smoking in Denver Airport.

What is smoking as per Colorado law?

According to Colorado state law, smoking includes all forms of burning tobacco or any other substances, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes and vaping. The use and/or possession of marijuana or any cannabis product is also prohibited in Denver Airport’s public areas and terminals.

City of Denver’s laws regarding smoking:

In 2019, the Colorado Legislature made important updates to the Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act, originally passed in 2006, with the aim of expanding smoke-free protections. Effective July 1, 2019, vaping will be prohibited in indoor public places, including bars and restaurants. Additionally, individuals will be required to maintain a distance of at least 25 feet from entrances while smoking or vaping. Furthermore, all hotel and motel rooms will be designated as smoke and vape-free environments. Lastly, it is worth noting that all businesses and common areas of assisted living facilities will also be smoke and vape-free zones. These measures collectively contribute to creating healthier and cleaner environments for all.

Where to Smoke at Denver Airport:

Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the airport premises. However, there are designated smoking areas located before the security checkpoint, outside Jeppesen Terminal. It’s important to note that there are no smoking areas available beyond the security checkpoint near the gate. If you wish to smoke, kindly allocate sufficient time to return to the terminal and go through security procedures again.

Smoking zones can be found on both the East and West sides of the Jeppesen terminal. To access the outdoor smoking areas, simply exit through the designated doors located at the north and south ends of the terminal. Here are the specific doors for each level:

West Side of Jeppesen Terminal:

  • Level 4: Doors 400 and 416
  • Level 5: Doors 500 and 516
  • Level 6: Door 616

East Side of Jeppesen Terminal:

  • Level 4: Doors 401 and 417
  • Level 5: Doors 501 and 517
  • Level 6: Doors 601 and 617

Smoking within the secure area is only allowed at the “Smokin’ Bear Lodge Smoking Lounge,” situated in Concourse C at the heart of the concourse. There is a $3 cover charge per person, which includes your first drink (mandatory). The lounge is conveniently accessible from all concourses within a 5-minute walk.

Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act (20-19)

To mitigate the risks of smoke-related health problems in Colorado, the General Assembly enacted the Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act in 2006. This comprehensive legislation prohibits smoking in indoor areas across the state. Over the years, the act was revised in 2013 and 2019 to include the prohibition of marijuana smoking and the use of electronic smoking devices, respectively.

This issue brief delves into the act’s definition of smoking and outlines the establishments affected by the smoking ban, as well as those that are exempted from it. Additionally, it elucidates the penalties associated with noncompliance and provides insights into smoking bans implemented in other states.

You can read more here.

How about e-cigarettes?

In 2019, the Colorado legislature made amendments to the Clean Indoor Air Act to address the use of vapes and e-cigarettes. These changes encompass various aspects, including restrictions on vaping in permitted smoking areas, age restrictions, signage requirements, and penalties for non-compliance. The updated act now includes a definition of “electronic smoking device” (ESD), which encompasses e-cigarettes and similar devices. These modifications aim to enhance the effectiveness and scope of the “Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act”.

Same way cigarettes are not allowed in public areas, e-cigarettes are also prohibited in public areas. This includes places like subways, restaurants, bars, and other enclosed public areas.

Here is a link to the original Clean Air Indoor Act of 2006.

LAX Smoking Areas – Terminals 1 to 7

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At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you can enjoy a smoke without leaving the Security checkpoint, provided you know which terminal you’re departing from. Instead of going outside, the Tom Bradley International Terminal boasts a discreet airside smoking patio that offers a much more appealing option.

LAX is among a few airports in the US that have designed special smoking areas for passengers and really hope other airports will follow suit.

Is there a smoking area at LAX Airport?

LAX Airport has a total of 7 designated smoking areas conveniently situated outside Terminals 1, 2, 5, 6, and B.

Enjoy the new spacious outdoor smoking area, discreetly tucked away in the main Northern concourse near Gate 130 and the food court. This beautiful patio beckons you with comfortable seating and a vibrant atmosphere. As you stroll past KFC and Umami Burger, keep an eye out for a prominent sign guiding you leftwards. Plus, there’s a bonus: the airport WiFi is working reasonably well outside.

It is important to note that the smoking area at LAX is on the International Terminal and may not be easily accessible if you are flying domestically. If you are flying internationally and using Gates 130 to 225, you can easily get to the smoking area.

If you need exact directions of the smoking area at LAX, use this Google Maps link.

The outdoor patio is surrounded by tall glass walls, providing an excellent vantage point for planespotting enthusiasts to witness the graceful landings of aircraft. Despite the potential exposure to second-hand smoke, I briefly brought my son along to witness the arrival of our beloved Lufthansa A380.

Below is a map of B Terminal at LAX where you can smoke;

LAX B terminal

Note that the Tom Bradley International Terminal is separate from the rest of the terminals at LAX as shown in the map below;

LAX Airport terminals

Smoking Area at LAX Terminal 1:

LAX’s Terminal 1, below Gate 9, features a designated smoking area for passengers. There are even chairs for you to sit as you smoke.

terminal 1 lax smoking area

Smoking Area at LAX Terminal 2:

Smoking is permitted in Terminal 2 at LAX. You’ll find the designated smoking area below Gate 24, where a spacious wooden bench awaits for your comfort while you enjoy your smoke.

Terminal 2 smoking lax area

Smoking Area at LAX Terminal 5:

You can smoke at LAX’s terminal 5 Below Gate 54B (Moat), where you will find a small smoking area with no seating.

lax terminal 5 smoking area

Smoking Area at LAX Terminal 6:

Smoking is allowed in Terminal 6 at LAX. The designated smoking area is located below Gate 64B/66 (Moat).

terminal 6 lax smoking area

Smoking Area at LAX Terminal B:

You can smoke at Tom Bradley International Terminal near Gate 131 & Gate 151 and on the mezzanine level

TBIT smoking areas lax

LAX Smoking in Terminals 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 and 8:

As of this writing in 2023, there are no designated smoking areas in terminals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 as per the official airport website. You will have to go to the smoking area located at TBIT to smoke. Smoking is prohibited in all other areas of the airport.

I came across online sources suggesting that smoking is permitted at Terminal 7. The designated smoking area in Terminal 7 LAX is situated on the southern side, close to the exit leading to the parking garage.

According to another source, there are designated smoking areas available curbside at Terminals 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, and B.

In the past, the airport featured outdoor patios in Terminal 2 and Terminal 6, along with patios offered in the airline lounges of the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT). However, these previous patios have now been transformed into pet relief areas, where smoking is strictly prohibited.

Getting to the smoking area:

Getting to TBIT from other terminals at LAX is a breeze, as all terminals are interconnected. Currently, terminals 4-8 and TBIT are connected on the secure side, after passing through security. Terminals 6-8 are linked by a convenient ground-level walkway, while underground tunnels connect Terminal 4, 5, and 6. This means that if you’re traveling from any of these terminals, you can easily access the smoking area. If you’re departing from Terminal 7 or 8, it’s advisable to allow yourself at least 15 minutes in each direction to reach the smoking area. Alternatively, stepping outside to smoke and going through security again afterwards might be a more convenient option.

Smoking Laws in Los Angeles:

Starting from January 1, 1995, California implemented the Anti-Smoking Ordinance Enforcement, California Labor Code 6404.5. This regulation prohibits smoking in most workplaces, with the exception of tobacco shops and private residences. If you come across any violations, you can report them by calling the City of Los Angeles Anti-Smoking Ordinance Hotline at (213) 978-3568. Let’s work together to create a healthier and smoke-free environment!

See the notice on the City’s website below;

smoking laws los angeles

You can read more here or here

Since March 8, 2011, the City of Los Angeles has enforced Municipal Code 41.50 B 18 b, which prohibits smoking in outdoor dining areas. Furthermore, it is obligatory to prominently display “No Smoking” signs in these designated areas.

california smoking laws

Completely Smoke-free Indoors:

The Los Angeles International Airport is a completely smoke-free indoor environment. This means that smoking is prohibited in all parts of the airport, including restaurants and lounge areas. To provide passengers with an alternative, there are designated outdoor smoking areas at each terminal building. As the air around these areas can be potentially hazardous, please ensure not to linger for too long and follow instructions from the airport staff.

Are e-cigarettes allowed?

E-cigarettes, also known as vape pens, are included in the airport’s no-smoking policy. Vaping is strictly prohibited inside all parts of LAX Airport and its premises. Please note that if any e-cigarette device emits an odor or vapor, it will be regarded as a violation of the no-smoking policy.

We understand that some passengers may prefer to vape or smoke for recreational purposes. For this reason, the airport provides designated outdoor smoking areas for guests who wish to do so. Please take into account that these areas are monitored closely and any violation of the no smoking policy will result in disciplinary action from LAX Airport staff.

Detroit Airport Smoking Guide

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Smoking is prohibited in all public places in the state of Michigan. This includes areas within airports. Detroit Metro Airport is no exception to this rule and has a designated smoking area for those who need to smoke.

This guide is one of my advisories on airports that permit smoking. It includes specific information on smoking at airports like Atlanta, Heathrow, and JFK. I have meticulously crafted these guides to provide you with comprehensive and insightful resources on this topic.

What is Smoking?

Smoking is the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of tobacco, cannabis and other substances. The majority of smokers prefer cigarettes for their convenience and affordability. Cigarettes contain hundreds of additives that increase their addictive potential and create a wide range of health risks for people who use them.

Where is the Detroit Airport Smoking Area?

The designated smoking area at Detroit Metro Airport is located outside of the main terminal doors near the baggage claim. The area is clearly marked with signs and includes several ashtrays for users to dispose of their cigarettes. There are also benches available for travelers who need a place to sit while smoking.

What are the Rules?

In 2009, the Governor of Michigan signed some legislation called the Public Act 188 into laws and it introduced smoke-free air laws in Michigan. The smoke-free air law prohibits smoking in public places and workplaces, including airports. This means that users of the Detroit airport smoking area must comply with all of the rules and regulations regarding smoking at the airport.

Detroit Smoking Laws Act 188 of 2009

While the Smoke-free law went into effect in 2009, the Airport’s management only enforced the smoking ban in 2012 as per this circular.

Read more about the law here.

Under the law, the following areas are regarded as public spaces;

  • (i) enclosed indoor area owned or operated by a state or local governmental agency and used by the general public;
  • (ii) an enclosed indoor area used by the general public and is an educational facility, a home for the aged, nursing home, hospice, or hospital long-term care unit, auditorium, arena, theater, museum, concert hall, or any other facility during the period of its use for performance or exhibit of the arts;
  • (iii) unless otherwise exempted, a place of employment. Place of employment means an enclosed indoor area that contains one or more work area for one or more persons employed by a public or private employer.

Does Regulation Allow Smoking at Detroit Airport?

No. Smoking is prohibited in all public places including airports and Detroit Metro Airport is no exception to this rule. The law that was passed in 2009 does not prohibit smoking in outdoor spaces and the airport has a designated smoking area for those who need to smoke. Travelers are allowed to smoke in the designated smoking area, but they must comply with all rules and regulations regarding smoking. There is also a fine for anyone who is caught smoking outside of the designated area.

What’s the penalty for smoking in non-designated areas?

You’ll get a misdemeanor ticket and will be fined up to $100. In addition, you may also be banned from the airport premises altogether. So make sure to stick to the designated smoking area at Detroit Airport if you need to smoke.

Smoking Areas at Detroit Airport:

The designated smoking area at Detroit Metro Airport is located outside of the main terminal doors near the baggage claim. The area is clearly marked with signs and includes several ashtrays for users to dispose of their cigarettes. There are also benches available for travelers who need a place to sit while smoking.

Smoking at Atlanta Airport Concourses A,B to E

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Atlanta Airport is among several airports that have recently passed legislation to ban smoking in public spaces including the airport. Over the past decade, several states such as Michigan, New York, and New Jersey have implemented legislation that bans smoking in public places including airports. The Atlanta airport is no exception to this trend as it has been smoke-free since January 2020. I recently wrote about smoking in top airports including JFK, Detroit, LAX and Heathrow.

In this blog, we will look at the laws and regulations surrounding smoking at Atlanta Airport, why the airport has implemented a no-smoking policy, and what travelers can expect when visiting the airport.

Can I smoke at Atlanta Airport?

Prior to January 2020, smoking in Atlanta Airport was allowed but was officially banned when the Atlanta City Council approved the ban.  On July 1, 2019, the Atlanta City Council, through a press release reported that it had approved legislation prohibiting smoking and vaping in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, city facilities, and other specified public places (Legislative Reference No. 19-O-1205).

Below is a snapshot of the specific ordinance;

To safeguard the public against exposure to secondhand smoke, the law recently passed prohibits smoking and vaping in bars and restaurants – with the exception of outdoor seating or serving areas.

Below is a snapshot of the press release from July 2019;

This is a link to the entire press release by the City of Atlanta.

The 2019 change in the Atlanta Indoor Air Ordinance laws which regulate smoking in public places and places of employment has been in place since 1977 when the City of Atlanta adopted the legislation to curb indoor smoking. The Atlanta Airport was one of the first public places to implement a no-smoking policy in the city as part of its commitment to promoting health and wellness.

Which public places is smoking not allowed in Atlanta?

According to the ordinance, “Public place means an enclosed area to which the public is invited or in which the public is permitted, including, but not limited to, banks, bars, educational facilities, health care facilities, laundromats, public transportation facilities, reception areas, restaurants, retail food production and marketing establishments, retail service establishments, retail stores, shopping malls, sports arenas, theaters, and waiting rooms. A private residents is not a public place unless it is used as a licensed child care, adult day-care, or health care facility.”

Read more here.

Specific laws prohibiting smoking in Atlanta Airport:

The main clause in the Ordinance 19-O-1205 which prohibits smoking at Atlanta Airport is covered in Section 86-32. The law which aims to ensure indoor air is not contaminated by second-hand smoke, states that smoking is not allowed on all premises of the airport. That includes the terminal buildings, airside areas including concourses and boarding gates, as well as outdoor areas such as drop-off zones and parking decks.

However, the law exempts from the prohibitions contained in the Smokefree Air Act.

Atlanta Airport operator is therefore allowed to designate special smoking zones which are clearly marked and equipped with appropriate ventilation systems. However, the law states that these smoking areas should not be located in any building or location where smoke would likely enter an area occupied by non-smokers.

Smoking is strictly prohibited within 25 feet of the Terminal entrance and persons under 18 are not permitted to smoke in any designated smoking zones.

Where to smoke at Atlanta Airport?

Your best place to find designated spots to smoke is close to Concourse T which connects to the Domestic Terminal. Below are the locations in the Domestic terminal where you can smoke;

  • Domestic Terminal North – Lower Level, close to Door N in the Area Between Doors N3 and N4
  • Domestic Terminal – South Main in Door LN1 and Door LN2
  • Domestic Terminal – South Lower Level in Area Between Door S1 and S2 and in Area Between Doors S4 and S5 and in area close to Door S6
  • Domestic Terminal North – Main outside Door LS1 and Door LS2

Where to Smoke in Atlanta Concourse A:

Unfortunately, there are no designated smoking zones in Atlanta’s Concourse following the change in laws in 2020. The Concourse only serves Delta Airlines. In my research, I found that this concourse has a smoking lounge called Tap Gastropub Smoking Lounge but could not ascertain as its Facebook page hasn’t been active since 2018 – before the law was passed. I would, therefore, recommend that you don’t consider smoking in this area.

Smoking at Atlanta Concourse B:

There is nooking at Atlanta Concourse B, following the change in laws in 2020. A designated smoking zone within the concourse is not allowed due to health and safety regulations.

Smoking at Atlanta Concourse C & D:

The same rule applies to both of these concourses – no designated smoking areas are available as per the new law.

Smoking at Atlanta Concourse E, F and G:

Since 2020, there have been no designated smoking zones in any of these three concourses.

Overall, smoking at the Atlanta Airport is not allowed unless you are in a designated smoking area. I would recommend that you check the official website for further information on other public places where smoking is not allowed. As it stands, if you wish to smoke in Atlanta Airport, you should make sure to check the current smoking laws and regulations before doing so. Failure to comply with the law may result in hefty fines or other legal challenges. So it’s best to be informed and stay safe!

FAQs

Is smoking at Atlanta Airport allowed?

No, smoking is not allowed at the Atlanta Airport unless you are in a designated smoking area that complies with smoke-free laws.

Are there any designated smoking areas at Atlanta Airport?

Yes, although these are limited in number and are not located in every terminal or concourse. The best place to find designated spots to smoke is close to Concourse T which connects to the Domestic Terminal.

Are there any smoking lounges at Atlanta Airport?

We could not find an active smoking lounge at the airport. Some sources suggest that there used to be a Tap Gastropub Smoking Lounge in Concourse A, but its Facebook page has been inactive since 2018.

Smoking at Heathrow Terminals 1,2,3,4 and 5

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Guide to smoking at heathrow terminals - blog image cover

When I still used to smoke, I remember getting asked where one can smoke at Heathrow’s Terminal 2. Or was it Terminal 4 or 5? I have since developed expertise and deep insights as an airport travel consultant and in this guide, I will share with you the smoking areas at Heathrow airport.

What is a cigarette?

A cigarette is a small roll of paper that contains tobacco. The tobacco is usually wrapped in a thin layer of paper. Cigarettes are mostly smoked by men and women over the age of 18.

Cigarette smoking has been declining in developed countries, but it remains common in many developing countries. In 2018, an estimated 1.1 billion people around the world smoked cigarettes. This number is expected to increase to 1.6 billion by 2030.

 

Can I smoke in Heathrow?

The simple answer is no, you can’t smoke inside the airport or any of its terminals. Heathrow is a smoke-free environment and has been since 2007. On Heathrow’s website, it indicates that Heathrow is a smoke-free zone in line with British law on smoking in enclosed public spaces.

E-cigarette vs traditional cigarettes

E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that heat a liquid to produce an aeros. The E-liquid typically contains nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, and flavorings.

As of 2019, the use of e-cigarettes is still evolving and their long-term health effects are not yet known. However, they are generally considered to be safer than traditional cigarettes.

Heathrow has banned the traditional cigarette as shown in the notice below;

It has also banned e-cigarettes:

Here is a list of all airline contacts that you can reach out to inquire.

Smoking at Heathrow Policy:

The smoking ban went into effect in England on July 1, 2007 at 6am. This includes public places and workplaces that are mostly or completely enclosed, as well as public transport and most work vehicles and company cars.

Below is a screenshot of the law passed by UK Parliament:

Snapshot showing UK legislation on smoking in public including in airports such as Heathrow
Snapshot showing UK legislation on smoking in public

Read the entire law on smoking in public places here.

places that must be smoke-free in the UK

So, no smoking at Heathrow at all?

Yes. Smoking is not permitted inside any of the Heathrow terminals but there is a caveat. Smoke-free areas includes all indoor areas, such as restaurants and cafes.

There are some designated smoking areas at Heathrow, but they’re all outside the airport terminals.

These are typically located near the entrance/exit.

Does heathrow have smoking area?

walking through Heathrow’s Terminal 5, you’ll see signs for the ‘Designated Smoking Area’. It’s located near Gate A23 on the first floor of the main concourse.

Here’s a map to help you find it:

Map of Terminal 2 smoke location
Map of Terminal 2 smoke location

The A23 Gate at Terminal 2 is close to the outside baggage as shown in the image above

Where are the smoking areas at Heathrow?

If you’re looking for a place to have a cigarette at Heathrow, your best bet is to head toward one of the following smoking areas:

Can you smoke at Terminal 1 Heathrow airport?

No, there is no designated smoking area at or near Terminal 1. It is regarded as a smoke-free terminal and you’ll need to take a light train from Terminal 1 to any smoke-allowed terminal such as T4. The journey would only take about a minute.

Can you smoke at Terminal 2 Heathrow airport?

Yes, there is a designated smoking area at Terminal 2. The smoking terrace is located on Level 2 of the main building, near Gate A1. As of October 2022, users have indicated that this smoking spot is open.

The smoking section at Terminal 2 is after security and is outside as required by UK smoking laws. One smoker said that the location has decent seating, is well-protected from the weather, and, perhaps most significantly, has outdoor heaters/ Heaters.

Smoking area at Terminal 3 Heathrow:

As of 2022, the smoking area at Heathrow Terminal 3 transit area is no longer available. It has been closed and Terminal 3 is now one of the smoke-free terminals. It used to have a smoking spot but after the change in regulation limiting the smoking areas in the airport, this particular terminal is now smoke-free.

One user asked staff whether the Terminal 3 smoke zone was open and was told it is not. So, don’t go asking. You’re out of luck.

If you are in this terminal, your best bet is to go to Terminal 2 or 4 using light rail transit.

Can you smoke at Terminal 4 Heathrow Airport?

Yes, smoking is allowed at Terminal 4 of Heathrow Airport. The designated smoking area is located past security. To get there, turn left after security and follow the corridor between Burberry and the restaurant.

As of October 2022, the smoking terrace at T4 is still open and smokers have reported that it has plenty of seating.

Smoking at Heathrow Terminal 5:

No, you can no longer finds what one user said about the change:

I used to smoke at T5 all the time but they recently closed the smoking area. You can’t even find an ashtray anywhere. I think they did this because there’s a new smoking policy at Heathrow where you can only smoke in designated areas that are outside

FAQs

Why do airports not allow smoking?

Smoking inside airport terminals is not allowed because it’s a fire hazard. It’s also disruptive to other travelers and creates an unpleasant environment.

Can I vape at Heathrow airport?

Yes, if your airline permits, you may vape at Heathrow Airport. Passengers are not allowed to use electronic cigarettes within the airport boundaries, according to Heathrow’s website. If you’re planning on carrying cigarettes in your hand luggage, check with your airline first to be sure they’re allowed on board.

Can I bring my own e-cigarette to Heathrow?

Yes, you can bring your own e-cigarette to Heathrow as long as it’s for personal use. You cannot sell or distribute e-cigarettes at the airport.

You are not allowed to smoke inside the airport terminals, but there are designated smoking areas outside.

Do I have to go through security again if I leave the smoking area?

No, you do not have to go through security again if you leave the smoking area.

Can I buy cigarettes at Heathrow airport?

Yes, you can buy cigarettes at Heathrow airport. There are a few shops that sell cigarettes, including WHSmith and Boots.

Do I need my passport to buy cigarettes at Heathrow?

No, you do not need your passport to buy cigarettes at Heathrow. However, you may need to show ID if you look under 18 years old.

Do I have to pay duty on cigarettes bought at Heathrow?

No, you do not have to pay duty on cigarettes bought at Heathrow. However, you may have to pay VAT (Value Added Tax) depending on the country you’re travelling to.

I’m under 18, can I buy cigarettes at Heathrow?

No, it is illegal to sell cigarettes to anyone under the age of 18 in the UK.

What are the smoking regulations at Heathrow?

The smoking regulations at Heathrow state that you cannot smoke inside the airport terminals. However, there are designated smoking areas outside.

Can I smoke in my hotel room at Heathrow?

No, you cannot smoke in your hotel room at Heathrow. All hotels at Heathrow are non-smoking. You can check out restaurants at Heathrow Airport here. 

You can also check out other airport smoking guides for Detroit, JFK, LAX, and Atlanta Airports.

Can You Smoke in JFK Airport?

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If you want to smoke any type of tobacco product at JFK airport, you will need to do so in designated smoking areas only that are about 20 feet away from JFK Terminal entrances and exits. You are not allowed to smoke indoors.

In this blog, I have explained whether you can smoke at JFK airport, the rules on smoking and directions to smoking areas at JFK.

Is smoking in airports legal?

The answer to this question is complicated. There are many factors that come into play when answering this question such as the country the airport is located in, state/province laws, and airport policies.

In general, smoking is not allowed inside airport terminals. This rule is in place because of the enclosed spaces and the high volume of people passing through airports. Secondhand smoke can be harmful to those who are exposed to it, and smoking in enclosed spaces can create an unpleasant environment for everyone.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Some airports have designated smoking areas where smokers are allowed to light up. These areas are usually located outside of the terminal building.

JFK Airport Smoking Rules

The Section M of the Airport Rules and Regulations issued by JFK’s airport manager – Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, JFK’s smoking rules are as follows;

  1. No person shall smoke or carry a lighted cigar, pipe, match…on any of the airport’s locations – terminals, ramps, cargo area, storage area, balcony, stairs, elevator…
  2. No open flame on the airport indoors sections
  3. You can smoke on designated areas of outdoor dining areas

Below are the snapshots showing the rules;

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey have designated smoking areas at JFK airport. These areas are located outside of the terminal buildings.

Smokers must be at least 20 feet away from any entrance or exit to a terminal, and they must use the provided ashtrays. It is also important to note that e-cigarettes are not allowed in these smoking areas.

If you are caught smoking in a non-designated area, you may be subject to a fine.

Directions to JFK Smoking Areas

If you are looking for the closest smoking area to your terminal, here are some helpful tips:

  • Terminal 1: Exit the terminal onto Belt Parkway. The smoking area is located on the right side.
  • Terminal 2: Exit the terminal and turn left onto Van Wyck Expressway. The smoking area is located on the right side.
  • Terminal 4: Exit the terminal onto Grand Central Parkway. The smoking area is located on the left side.
  • Terminal 5: Exit the terminal and turn left onto JFK Expressway. The smoking area is located on the right side.
  • Terminal 8: Exit the terminal and turn right onto JFK Expressway. The smoking area is located on the left side.

JFK Airport Smoking Guidelines

In addition to the rules set by the Port Authority, there are some general guidelines that smokers should follow when using the designated smoking areas at JFK:

  • Be considerate of others and dispose of your cigarette butt properly
  • Do not leave the smoking area to smoke elsewhere
  • Do not loiter in the smoking area
  • Do not smoke near doorways, air vents or windows
  • Do not smoke while waiting in line for transportation

Following these guidelines will help to ensure that everyone can enjoy the designated smoking areas at JFK airport.

JFK Airport is located in New York, which has a statewide ban on smoking in all indoor public places, including airports. This means that you are not allowed to smoke inside JFK Airport terminal buildings.

However, there are designated smoking areas at JFK Airport where you are allowed to smoke. These areas are located outside of the terminal buildings.

If you are looking for a smoking area at JFK Airport, here are some helpful tips:

-Smoking areas are typically located near the exits of terminal buildings

-Look for signs that say “Smoking Area” or “No Smoking Beyond This Point”

-Ask a airport employee for directions to the nearest smoking area

Smoking area jfk airport terminal 4

At JFK’s terminal 4, you can find smoking designated areas just outside the exit of the terminal. There is no indoor smoking area at JFK’s terminal 4 at the Arrival and Departure level. Like in all other terminals, smoking is permitted 25 feet from terminal entrances.

Smoking area jfk airport terminal 8

JFK’s terminal 8 also has smoking designated areas just outside the exit of the terminal. It is not permitted to light any cigarette lighter or to have any open flames at any of JFK’s terminals. There is no indoor smoking area at JFK’s terminal 8.

You can smoke your regular or electronic cigarette at a designated external room outside the entrance or exit of JFK’s terminal 8.

Smoking area jfk airport terminal 1

At JFK’s terminal 1, you can find smoking designated areas on both sides of the exit of the terminal. There is no indoor smoking area at JFK’s terminal 1.

Smoking is permitted 25 feet from all entrances of JFK’s terminal 1 on the East and West sides.

How JFK’s Smoking Policy is Compared to other Airports:

In a study on smoking policies by major US airports, New York JFK’s smoking policy was described as “Completely smokefree indoors and e-cigarette use is not permitted indoors. Designated smoking areas are located outside of terminals.”

See the snapshot below.

Below are some US Airports where smoking is permitted:

  1. McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas
  2. Miami International Airport (MIA) – E-cigarette use is not permitted indoors. Smoking is permitted in an “open air” atrium, which has four walls and a roof with a gap at the roofline, that is attached to the airport’s TGI Fridays restaurant.
  3. Nashville International Airport (BNA) – Smoking is permitted in two Graycliff Boutique & Lounge (with purchase) locations: on Concourse B near Gate B10 and on Concourse C near Gate C10.
  4. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) – Smoking rooms are located near gates B38, B75, C4 and D30.

I hope this blog has been helpful in explaining the smoking policy at JFK Airport. Remember, if you want to smoke at JFK, you must do so in designated smoking areas only. Follow the signs and ask airport staff for help if you need it. And most importantly, be considerate of those around you.

FAQs on JFK Airport Smoking

Q: Can you buy cigarettes at JFK airport?

A: Yes, you can buy cigarettes at JFK airport. There are several tobacco shops located throughout the airport, including one in each terminal. GO for duty-free options.

Q: Where can I find the smoking areas at JFK airport?

A: Smoking areas are typically located near the exits of terminal buildings. Look for signs that say “Smoking Area” or “No Smoking Beyond This Point”. You can also ask a airport employee for directions to the nearest smoking area.

Q: Can I smoke an electronic cigarette at JFK airport?

A: Yes, you can smoke electronic cigarettes at JFK airport. However, you must do so in designated smoking areas only. E-cigarette use is not permitted indoors.

Q: Is smoking allowed inside JFK airport terminals?

A: No, smoking is not allowed inside any of the airport terminals at JFK. Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas that are located outside of the terminal buildings.

Q: Who owns JFK?

A: JFK is owned by the City of New York but is managed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Q: is jfk airport open 24 hours

A: JFK airport is open 24 hours. However, some airport facilities and services are only available during specific hours. For example, the airport’s observation decks are only open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Q: Can you sleep in JFK airport?

A: Yes, you can sleep in JFK airport. There are several designated sleeping areas located throughout the airport, including in all of the terminals. These areas typically have comfortable seating, dim lighting, and quiet surroundings. You can also sleep in one of the airport’s sleep pods, and hotels if you need a more private and comfortable space. Here are some hotels close to JFK with their pricing.

Q: How far are designated smoking locations from JFK’s terminals?

A: All smoking areas at JFK airport are located 25 feet from the entrances of terminal buildings. It shouldn’t take you more than a minute from your Terminal to get to the smoke area.

Q: I’m flying out of JFK’s terminal 1. Where can I smoke?

A: There are designated smoking areas on both sides of the exit of terminal 1. However, there is no indoor smoking area at this terminal.

Q: I have a connecting flight at JFK. Can I smoke before my second flight?

A: Yes, you can smoke before your second flight as long as you have a valid boarding pass for that flight.

Q: What are the consequences for smoking in a non-designated area at JFK airport?

A: If you are caught smoking in a non-designated area at JFK airport, you may be subject to a fine of up to $250.

Q: What other rules do I need to follow when smoking at JFK airport?

A: In addition to only smoking in designated areas, you must also dispose of your cigarettes properly. Cigarette butt receptacles are located in all smoking areas. Please use them to dispose of your cigarettes. Do not throw cigarette butts on the ground or anywhere else.

Q: where is jfk airport in nyc?

A: JFK airport is located in New York City, in the borough of Queens. It is about 12 miles from Manhattan and about 19 miles from Brooklyn.