Vapers Beware: New Law Could See Fines for Puffing at Bus Stops Across the UK 

Vapers across the UK could soon be slapped with a £100 fine for using their devices at bus stops, under a new bill currently making its way through Parliament. The proposed legislation would prohibit vaping in and around designated bus stop areas — including open-air stops — in a sweeping attempt to clamp down on antisocial behaviour and restore order to public transport spaces. 

While vaping is often seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking, lawmakers argue that its presence in shared public zones has become a nuisance. If the bill passes, those who continue to vape in restricted zones could face on-the-spot penalties, with the risk of escalating to a £1,000 fine if the initial penalty is not paid. 

Why the Crackdown Now? 

The government’s renewed focus on public transport etiquette stems from rising complaints about antisocial behaviour at bus stops and on buses. From loud music and littering to fare dodging and disruptive conduct, vaping has become a visible part of the problem, according to transport watchdogs. 

Ministers backing the bill argue that allowing vaping at bus stops — even in open-air spaces — sends the wrong message, particularly to younger commuters and children. With colourful devices and flavoured vapours, the concern is that vaping normalises the behaviour and encourages uptake among teenagers, many of whom use buses daily for school. 

The crackdown is also linked to broader transport reforms aimed at discouraging fare dodging and enhancing passenger comfort. Some campaigners believe the presence of clouds of vapour in small bus shelters deters more vulnerable or health-conscious passengers from using public transport. 

The Details of the Bill 

The proposed legislation doesn’t differentiate between types of vaping devices or nicotine content. Whether it’s a disposable vape or a refillable pod system, if it’s puffed at a bus stop, it could lead to a fine. 

What’s more, the bill specifies that even uncovered, open-air bus stops may fall under the ban — as long as they are marked as designated stopping points for public transport. Enforcement would likely be carried out by local authorities, transport inspectors, or even through enhanced CCTV monitoring already in place at many urban transport hubs. 

Failure to pay the initial £100 fine could lead to court proceedings and a further £1,000 penalty — significantly upping the stakes for casual vapers who assume the rules don’t apply to open spaces. 

Public Reaction: Support and Pushback 

Unsurprisingly, the response from the public has been mixed. Health campaigners and many members of the public have welcomed the bill, arguing that it helps keep communal areas clean and accessible to all. Parents, in particular, have voiced concern over children being exposed to second-hand vapour or influenced by the perceived ‘cool’ factor of vaping. 

“I don’t want my kids seeing clouds of bubblegum smoke while they’re waiting for the school bus,” said one parent in Manchester. “This is a good move.” 

However, some vaping advocates argue the measure goes too far and risks further stigmatising people who are using vapes as a smoking cessation tool. “We need regulation, yes — but not blanket bans that treat all vapers as troublemakers,” said one spokesperson from a vaping industry group. “Punishing people for standing outside at a bus stop feels excessive.” 

Civil liberties groups have also raised concerns over enforcement. “Policing vaping at every single bus stop in the country is neither feasible nor proportionate,” said one legal commentator. “Especially when many vapers assume they’re acting responsibly by staying outdoors.” 

Is This Part of a Bigger Vape Crackdown? 

The proposed bus stop ban isn’t the only sign of tightening regulations. Across the UK, local councils and the government have begun exploring stricter rules on vape sales, advertising, and usage in public spaces. Disposable vapes in particular have been under heavy scrutiny due to environmental concerns and increasing use among under-18s. 

With the UK government already considering a generational smoking ban — preventing anyone born after 2009 from ever legally buying tobacco — it’s clear that vaping is the next item on the regulatory agenda. Critics argue that vaping is being unfairly lumped in with smoking, but for many lawmakers, the lines are increasingly blurred. 

What Happens Next? 

The bill is currently in the committee stage, where amendments and clarifications are being debated. If passed, it could become law as early as next year, potentially giving local councils the authority to fine vapers at public transport zones immediately. 

Until then, vapers are being warned to keep an eye on local signage and to respect others in shared public areas. Whether it’s raining or not, puffing while waiting for the number 42 could soon come with an unexpected price tag. 

Conclusion: A Breath of Fresh Air or Overreach? 

As the UK continues its effort to tackle antisocial behaviour and protect public health, the proposed vaping ban at bus stops represents a bold, if controversial, step. For vapers, the message is clear: think before you puff — or risk a £100 penalty that could spiral into something far costlier. 

Topics