Can You Bring Vapes Into Football Stadiums?

Many football fans are unsure about the current vaping regulations surrounding e-cigarettes at stadiums. If you're one of them, then you've come to the right place.

We’ve created this guide to help explain the current rules about bringing and using vapes in football venues and what you can do to consume nicotine without vaping.

Can You Vape at Football Matches?

The answer is no. Almost all Premier League football stadiums in the UK currently enforce strict no-smoking and no-vaping policies.

Vaping is banned in all Premier League football stadiums as part of efforts to create smoke-free environments and comply with the law regarding enclosed spaces.

This means that using e-cigarettes is prohibited within the stadium premises, including seating areas and restrooms. There is no nationwide blanket ban on vaping in enclosed public spaces in the UK, but most football stadiums have established their own strict rules and restrictions regarding the use of e-cigarettes. These vaping policies are designed to protect all supporters and ensure a comfortable environment during matches.

It’s also worth remembering that attempting to vape discreetly can lead to serious consequences. For instance, clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City, and Leicester City have policies that allow for the ejection of fans caught vaping. Everton reserves the right to revoke season tickets for such violations.

Vaping and cigarette smoking are punished universally under standard stadium rules that ensure all consumption of nicotine (in tobacco/vape form) is strictly prohibited in all enclosed spaces within the stadium.

Can You Exit and Re-Enter to Vape?

Unfortunately, most Premier League stadiums do not permit re-entry once you’ve exited. While re-entry is not allowed, fans who wish to vape may do so in car parks or other outdoor areas before entering the stadium. This usually means you cannot leave the stadium to vape and then return to watch the remainder of the match. If you’d like to double-check if you can/cannot re-enter during halftime, it’s worth asking custodial staff about their current policies.

Designated Smoking/Vaping Areas

Many football stadiums provide designated smoking areas outside the main stands for cigarette smokers. The rules about vaping in these areas are not always the same as those for tobacco smoking. Some stadiums allow fans to use their vape devices in designated smoking areas, while others may strictly prohibit vaping alongside smoking. In certain cases, stadiums have even introduced separate designated vaping areas to accommodate vapers and ensure everyone’s comfort.

Enforcement of Vaping Policies

Enforcement of vaping policies at football stadiums is taken seriously to ensure compliance with stadium rules and regulations. Security staff and stewards are responsible for monitoring the stands, concourses, and other areas to make sure fans are not vaping where it is prohibited.

If a supporter is found using a vape device in a restricted area, they may be asked to leave the stadium, and in some cases, could even have their season ticket revoked.

Stadiums often use clear signage and public announcements to remind fans of the vaping ban and encourage everyone to comply. It’s essential for all supporters to be aware of the specific vaping policies at their chosen football ground to avoid any unpleasant incidents or penalties during the match.

Best Alternatives to Vaping in Football Stadiums

Nicotine pouches are a popular choice, as they are discreet, smokeless, and generally permitted inside stadiums. Other options include nicotine gum or nicotine strips, which can help manage cravings without breaking any stadium regulations.

If you prefer to use a vape pen or other device, it’s best to do so in designated areas outside the stadium before entering.

Policies at Lower League Games and Other Stadiums

While Premier League venues have stringent rules, policies at lower league stadiums, football grounds, rugby stadiums, and other sporting venues can vary:

• Local teams and games (grass venues with no turnstiles, active security or police presence) will likely allow all users to vape freely so long as it doesn’t interrupt the game or other viewers' experience. This varies game to game though, so please ask staff beforehand, every time!
• Blackburn Rovers (Ewood Park). This club had a sponsorship deal with a popular vaping company in the past. Regardless – as of today, though – Ewood Park does not allow vaping inside the stadium.
• Cardiff City FC. In the past this club has allowed fans to exit the stadium at halftime for a smoke break but are not allowed to re-enter after the start of the second half. There are reports that large rugby stadiums (for example the Principality Stadium, located in Cardiff, Wales) have also enforced this sort of policy on vaping and tobacco smoking during rugby and football matches.

It’s crucial to check the specific policies of the stadium you’re visiting, as rules can differ between venues.

Tips for Vaping Fans Attending Matches

• Plan ahead! If you anticipate the need for nicotine during the match, consider using alternatives like nicotine pouches, gum, or strips.
• Make sure you vape before entry. Enjoy your vape before entering the stadium, as you likely won’t have the opportunity once inside.
• Respect policies. Adhering to stadium policies ensures a pleasant experience for everyone and avoids potential penalties that could have your record at the club scrutinised in the future.

Unfortunately, the future of vaping in sports stadiums is uncertain. Some sports stadiums might introduce designated vaping areas to better accommodate fans. Other sports stadiums could implement even stricter restrictions or extend the vaping ban.

Final Thoughts

Although vaping is prohibited inside Premier League stadiums, being aware of the rules and planning accordingly can help you enjoy the match without any issues.

If in doubt, always check the specific policies of the stadium you're visiting, and consider alternative nicotine options to stay comfortable during the game.