Can I use an e-cigarette in public spaces?
Not in enclosed public spaces: vaping is treated like classic smoking. Since 2024, through the amendment brought by Law 64/2024 to Law 349/2002, e-cigarettes and vaping devices (including IQOS and similar products) are banned in all enclosed public spaces, just like ordinary cigarettes. Specifically, you can't vape in enclosed workplaces, on public transport, in educational establishments, in healthcare units and in children's playgrounds. Selling e-cigarettes and vaping products, with or without nicotine, to minors is banned, and traders must verify the buyer's age. In hospitality venues (restaurants, bars, cafés), use may depend on each venue's policy, within the limits of the law. In short: in enclosed public spaces, vaping is banned just like smoking.
📋 The rules
- Vaping banned in enclosed public spaces (Law 64/2024)
- Banned on public transport and at the enclosed workplace
- Banned in schools, hospitals and playgrounds
- Sale to minors: banned (with/without nicotine)
- Traders verify the buyer's age
🔓 Exceptions
- Open-air spaces: generally allowed (with common sense)
- Hospitality venues: depends on each venue's policy
- Your own home: a private space, not covered by the ban
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Using an e-cigarette or vaping device in the places where it's banned is sanctioned just like smoking: for individuals, the fine is between 100 and 500 lei. Businesses that don't observe the rules (don't display the ban, allow vaping) risk much higher fines and even suspension of activity. Selling to minors is sanctioned separately and more harshly. To avoid trouble: don't vape in enclosed public spaces, on transport, in schools, hospitals or playgrounds; use, where appropriate, the open-air spaces; and if you're a trader, verify the age and display the rules. Note that, for the law, vaping devices are largely treated like tobacco products.
📎 Official sources
- Law 349/2002 on preventing the effects of tobacco →
- Law 64/2024 (amending Law 349/2002) →
- Ministry of Health →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I vape in enclosed public spaces?
No. Since 2024, through Law 64/2024, e-cigarettes and vaping devices, including IQOS, are banned in all enclosed public spaces, just like classic cigarettes. The ban covers enclosed workplaces, public transport, schools, hospitals and children's playgrounds.
Can I use an e-cigarette in a restaurant or bar?
It depends on the venue. In hospitality venues (restaurants, bars, cafés), the use of vaping devices may be allowed depending on each venue's policy, within the limits of the law. Many venues ban vaping indoors, so it's advisable to ask or use the set-up outdoor spaces.
Can e-cigarettes be sold to minors?
No. Selling e-cigarettes and vaping products, with or without nicotine, to persons under 18 is banned by law. Traders must verify the buyer's age and request an identity document when there's any doubt about whether the person is of age.
What fine do I risk vaping where it's banned?
For individuals, using vaping devices in the places where it's banned is fined between 100 and 500 lei, just like smoking. Businesses that don't observe the rules risk much higher fines and even suspension of activity or closure of the venue in case of repeat breaches.
Can I vape at home or outdoors?
Yes. Your own home is a private space, not covered by the ban for enclosed public spaces, and in open-air spaces vaping is generally allowed, with common sense towards those around you. The ban targets mainly enclosed public spaces and places intended for children.
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