Smoking has been banned in enclosed and substantially enclosed public places and workplaces across the UK since 2006 and 2007, with England's rules in the Health Act 2006. A shelter only counts as outdoor if it's sufficiently open, and the rules in England turn on how much of the structure's walls are open, so a fully wrapped marquee with heaters counts as indoors. Venues must display no-smoking signs. Planning permission may be needed for a permanent shelter, and neighbours often object to noise and smoke drifting from gardens late at night, which can come up at a licence review.
Vaping isn't covered by the smoking ban, so whether you allow it inside is your own policy. A good smoking area is lit, has bins for ends, is away from doorways and windows, and is part of your dispersal plan at closing time. Staff supervising it need clear guidance on how to keep the noise down.
What we ask on the show
- Did the smoking ban save or sink the British pub?
- Should vaping be allowed inside venues?
- How do you keep a smoking area from annoying neighbours?
- What makes a beer garden great?