No, vaping with minors in a vehicle is prohibited under Costa Rica’s Ley General de Control del Tabaco y sus Efectos Nocivos en la Salud (Law 9028), enforced by the Ministerio de Salud and Consejo de Salud Ocupacional. The 2023 amendments to the law explicitly extend smoke-free protections to vaping, classifying enclosed spaces—including cars—with minors as high-risk environments. Violations may incur fines up to ₡1,000,000 (~$1,800 USD) for drivers, with stricter penalties if children exhibit respiratory symptoms.
Key Regulations for Vaping in a Car with Kids in Costa Rica
- Zero Tolerance in Enclosed Spaces: Law 9028 bans vaping in any vehicle carrying minors under 18, regardless of window position. The Reglamento a la Ley General de Control del Tabaco (Decreto Ejecutivo 40967-S) clarifies that partial ventilation does not exempt vehicles.
- Driver Liability: The driver is solely responsible for compliance, even if another passenger vapes. The Fiscalía de Tránsito may issue citations based on witness reports or traffic camera footage.
- Health Authority Enforcement: The Ministerio de Salud conducts random inspections in schools and public transport hubs. Repeat offenders face mandatory educational programs on tobacco/vaping harm reduction.
Local courts have upheld these provisions in 2024 rulings, citing the Convención sobre los Derechos del Niño and Costa Rica’s Plan Nacional de Acción para la Prevención del Tabaquismo. Parents should note that schools may report violations to health authorities, triggering administrative or civil proceedings.