No,
Vaping in a car with minors in Thailand violates the Control of Tobacco Products Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and its 2026 amendments, which classify e-cigarette use in enclosed public spaces—including vehicles—as a public health offense. The Department of Disease Control enforces these rules, with penalties up to THB 5,000 (≈USD 140) for drivers. Local police may issue fines under Section 38 of the act, citing child endangerment risks.
Key Regulations for Vaping in a Car with Kids in Thailand
- Enclosed Space Ban: The 2026 amendment explicitly prohibits vaping in vehicles when minors (under 18) are present, treating it as a “public place” under the act. Violations trigger administrative fines.
- Driver Liability: The driver bears full responsibility for compliance, even if the vaping occurs by a passenger. Police reports often cite Section 38 for “exposing minors to harmful substances.”
- Zero-Tolerance Enforcement: Bangkok Metropolitan Police and provincial authorities conduct random checks in family-oriented areas (e.g., shopping districts) since 2024, prioritizing child welfare cases.
Local courts have upheld fines against drivers in cases where e-cigarette aerosol was detected near children, regardless of intent. Public health campaigns by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation further pressure compliance.