Smoking ban in Ireland (2026)
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026
In short: Smoking is banned in workplaces, including licensed premises, and in public transport and public buildings. Open-air and mostly open covered areas are exempt. The fine is up to 3,000 euro.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Indoor public places and workplacesSmoking in public places | Smoking tobacco is banned in a place of work, in aircraft, trains, ships and public service vehicles, and in State and public-body buildings open to the public, health premises, schools and colleges, cinemas and theatres, as far as they are places of work. Exemptions include dwellings, prisons and some bedrooms in hotels. [1] |
| Bars and restaurantsSmoking in public places | Smoking is banned in a licensed premises and a registered club as far as it is a place of work. Bars and restaurants are not on the list of exemptions. [1] |
| Outdoor terraces and public outdoor areasSmoking in public places | Smoking is not banned in a place that is wholly uncovered, or in a covered outdoor part where no more than 50 per cent of the perimeter is enclosed by walls or similar structures. A covered outdoor part with more than 50 per cent of its perimeter enclosed is covered by the ban. [1] |
| Cars with childrenSmoking in public places | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| FineSmoking in public places | A person who smokes in a banned place commits an offence. On summary conviction the fine is up to 3,000 euro. The occupier or manager of the place also commits an offence unless they made all reasonable efforts to ensure compliance. [1] |
Notes
- The provision on smoking in cars with children could not be located in an official source on 7 November 2026.
Sources
- Law Reform Commission (Revised Acts): Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2002 (revised), sections 5 and 47 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.