Latest Vape News 20th Feb 2026 - UK Proposes Ban on Vaping in Cars and Near Schools

The government is proposing new rules to expand smoke-free areas, including banning vaping in cars carrying children under 18. The plans, currently out for consultation, would also prohibit smoking, vaping and heated tobacco products in children’s playgrounds and outside schools.

The Department of Health says the aim is to better protect children and vulnerable people from exposure to secondhand smoke. Under the proposals, smoking would also be banned outside hospitals and other healthcare settings. However, vaping would still be allowed in these locations to support people trying to quit smoking.

Existing indoor areas where smoking is already prohibited — such as workplaces and public transport — would become fully vape-free and heated tobacco-free as well. This would extend to private vehicles when they are transporting under-18s.

Some outdoor areas would be exempt from the ban. These include spaces linked to hospitality venues, such as pub, bar and restaurant gardens, as well as “wide-open public spaces” like beaches. People would still be able to choose whether to smoke or vape in their own homes or in private outdoor spaces.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the proposals are designed to ensure no child is exposed to smoke in playgrounds, and no hospital patient is affected by others smoking nearby. He highlighted that secondhand smoke increases the risk of serious illnesses including heart disease and lung cancer, and said the government wants to reduce harm to children and those in poor health.