Train passengers caught vaping could be thrown off at the next stop and face possible fines and prosecution, a railway boss has warned.
One of the largest train operators in the UK has issued a harsh new warning to “sly vapers” that they will be punished if caught.
Northern Trains says it has received dozens of complaints in the past year of “inconsiderate individuals vaping in busy carriages and on station platforms”.
Since April 2024, concerns have been raised by 77 passengers in post-journey surveys about vaping, and a further 29 have sent written complaints. Another 59 people made complaints to the operator through social media.
Northern’s chief operating officer Matt Rice said: “We want to be clear that vaping is not permitted on our trains or at any of our stations.
“We are encouraging people who travel on our services to be considerate of others so everyone can enjoy a pleasant journey.
“Those who are caught vaping may be asked to leave the train by a member of staff and we will not tolerate any abusive or aggressive reactions.”
Vaping illegal on trains and at stations
Vaping has been illegal on most train services, including Northern, and at stations since 2014.
However, train crew for Northern report people ignoring the rules on a daily basis or trying to avoid being caught by vaping in the toilets or blowing vapour into footwells and carriage vestibules.
Dave Phillips from vape retailer Vape Superstore has warned vapers to be aware of strict rules on public transport or face hefty fines, which are increasingly being enforced.
He said: “Vaping is strictly prohibited across the UK’s public transport network, including trains, trams, buses, and stations. Operators like Network Rail, Great Western Railway, Stagecoach, Arriva, and TfL enforce consistent bans to prioritise passenger comfort and safety.
“While bus passengers may not face fines, they could be asked to stop, disembark, or face bans for repeated violations, with penalties on other services reaching up to £200.”
Indoor vaping restrictions
Although vaping is not covered by the same laws as smoking, many public venues and local authorities enforce their own policies, often restricting indoor vaping in places such as hotels, restaurants, pubs and on public transport.
Mr Phillips said: “As a general rule of thumb, most arenas are non-vaping venues with vaping inside prohibited alongside smoking. Popular venues like Wembley Stadium, Co-op Live in Manchester and Utilita Arena in Cardiff all prohibit vaping.
“For football fans, it is also important to note that Premier League stadiums are smoke-free which includes the use of vapes. Fans who are caught using their e-cigarette in the stadium could even face potential bans if caught.”
Fines for vaping while driving
Even vaping in your car, though not illegal, could see you slapped with a fine.
Last year, motorists who vape were warned they could face a hefty £5,000 fine as well as nine points on their licence for being in breach of the Road Traffic Act.
Although vaping and driving is not illegal in itself, police warned it can result in disciplinary action if it is found to “significantly” impair the driver’s visibility. The upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill is also set to give authorities greater powers to enforce penalties for people who break vaping laws.
