UK Government Considers Ban on Vaping in Cars Carrying Children Under New Public Health Plan

Vaping could be banned in cars carrying children, as well as in playgrounds and outside schools, according to new government proposals aimed at curbing youth exposure to nicotine products.

The emerging plan, which forms part of a wider public health strategy, reflects growing concern over the rapid rise in vaping among minors and the increasing visibility of e‑cigarettes in family‑centred public spaces. Ministers are understood to be examining a series of restrictions designed to reduce both direct and indirect exposure to vaping, particularly in environments where children are present.

Under the proposals, adults would be prohibited from using vapes inside vehicles when a child is a passenger — mirroring existing laws that already ban smoking in cars with minors. The government is also considering extending restrictions to outdoor areas commonly used by children, including playgrounds, school entrances, and other designated family zones.

Public health officials argue that such measures are necessary to prevent children from normalizing vaping behaviour, reduce the risk of passive exposure to vapour, and limit the appeal of brightly packaged disposable devices that have become increasingly popular among teenagers.

Health advocates have welcomed the proposals, saying they represent a logical next step in protecting young people from nicotine addiction. However, some industry groups have warned that overly broad restrictions could unfairly penalize responsible adult users and may require careful enforcement planning.

The government is expected to outline the full details of the plan in the coming weeks, with consultations likely before any legislation is introduced. If approved, the measures would mark one of the most significant expansions of vaping regulation in the UK to date.

As ministers continue to weigh the proposals, the debate over how best to balance adult choice with child protection is set to intensify across the public health and education sectors.