Where Can and Can’t You Vape Indoors in Canada?

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice or guidance. It is solely your responsibility to understand and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

You want to vape, but you want to follow the laws and be respectful at the same time. There are various rules and regulations in place that limit vape use in certain places.

RELX has  compiled a comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know about vaping indoors across Canada. Follow this closely to avoid confusion and confrontation in various places.

Learn where vaping is allowed. Don’t assume it is legal until you do your research first. Vape pens have been around in Canada since 2004, so there’s a lot to catch up on — let’s go:

Is It Legal To Vape Indoors in Canada?

Canada does have laws regarding second-hand smoke inhalation. The Non-Smokers Health Act stipulates that public facilities sequester all smoke, including vape clouds, from non-smokers. These federal laws influence provincial laws regarding indoor vaping regulation. 

Be aware that laws change very quickly on this topic. Always consult the most up-to-date sources when determining legality. 

Since the legality depends on where you are, let's break down each province to ensure that you are well-informed on local laws.

Where Can You Vape Indoors in Canada?

If you want to vape indoors across Canada, you better head to these provinces. So far, there are no overarching provincial laws that prevent you from vaping indoors throughout these provinces. 

Alberta

This province has no laws in place regarding indoor vaping. However, businesses maintain the right to enact their own rules.

The only exception to this is Calgary. The largest city in Alberta has recently passed a law making it illegal to vape indoors while within city limits.

Saskatchewan

There are no provincial laws in place currently that restrict indoor vape use. But private businesses may have their restrictions.

The only exception to this is Saskatoon. This city in Saskatchewan has recently passed a law making it illegal to vape indoors while within city limits.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Currently, there are no laws in this province that address indoor vaping. However, you can expect many private businesses, especially in large cities like St. John's, to implement total bans on indoor smoke.

Even long-term care facilities have specific rooms where vape use is permitted.

Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut

None of the Canadian territories have any laws in place regarding indoor vaping. 

However, Canada does grant self-government to First Nations communities, which can create their own laws regarding indoor vaping.

The First Nations Health Authority has many recommendations in place regarding vaping but no outright laws. Make sure to check up on local laws next you enter First Nations lands.

But businesses establish their own rules, and patrons must follow what is in place. 

At Home

You should always feel confident that you can vape indoors in the privacy of your own home or if you are a guest in a home. Private areas that are never open to the public have no restrictions regarding indoor vaping. 

Vaping indoors at home will always be your safest bet around the country. 

Where Can’t You Vape Indoors in Canada?

Break out the map and double-check your location before vaping indoors once you cross provincial lines. Those provinces have strict laws in place to prevent indoor vaping. 

British Columbia

In B.C., vaping is prohibited in all public spaces indoors or outdoors. 

There are only two situations in which vaping indoors is permitted in British Columbia. 

• A limited number of patrons may sample products within an adult-only licensed vape store. 
• Designated rooms in hospitals and long-term care facilities allow for indoor vaping.

Manitoba

According to the Smoking and Vapour Products Control Act, vaping indoors is prohibited in Manitoba. 

The law excludes vaping within enclosed public spaces, shopping malls, group living facilities, health care facilities, indoor workplaces, pharmacies, public vehicles, and more.

The penalties can become severe over multiple offences. After three offences the maximum penalty is $15,000 for breaking this law.

Ontario

Ontario's laws ban vaping indoors in any public space. It includes private work areas, bars, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and public transportation.

Quebec

Much like Ontario, Quebec's laws ban vaping indoors in any public space. It includes private work areas, bars, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and public transportation.

There are hookah lounges in Quebec with permits that allow those over 18 to vape indoors.

New Brunswick

New Brunswick's laws ban vaping indoors in any public space.

In New Brunswick specifically, you may not vape inside a vehicle used for work when transporting two or more employees. 

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia's laws ban vaping indoors in any public space. 

This maritime province takes the ban one step further to include cars with anyone under 19 years. It also prohibits vaping within 4 metres of an airflow vent while outside.

Prince Edward Island

This small province bans vaping indoors. Vaping outdoors on patios is only permitted between 10 P.M and 3 A.M.

Conclusion

When it comes to vaping indoors throughout Canada, you just need to be aware of your surroundings.

Each province makes its own rules. New legislation is being introduced all the time and could change by the next time you travel around Canada. Be smart and make sure to research your location before taking out your vape pen.

The best way to learn local laws and rules is to ask before you begin to vape simply. Any business owner will be happy you were polite.