Yes, vaping indoors in Belgium is permitted under strict conditions, though regional autonomy allows municipalities to impose additional restrictions.
Vaping is not universally banned indoors, but the 2026 Tobacco and Related Products Act empowers the Flemish, Walloon, and Brussels-Capital Regions to regulate public spaces. The federal law prohibits vaping in enclosed workplaces, healthcare facilities, and public transport, while permitting it in bars, restaurants, and private residences unless prohibited by local ordinances. The Belgian Superior Health Council has flagged secondhand aerosol risks, prompting regional health authorities to consider stricter indoor air quality policies.
Key Regulations for Vaping Indoors in Belgium
- Federal Workplace Ban: Vaping is prohibited in all enclosed professional environments, including offices and factories, under the 2026 Act, aligning with EU Directive 2014/40/EU. Employers must enforce no-vaping policies and display signage in compliance with Codex Welzijn op het Werk (Book II, Title 3).
- Regional Discretion: The Flemish Government (via Decreet Luchtkwaliteit 2025) and Walloon Parliament (via Décret Air Pur 2024) may designate additional indoor spaces (e.g., cultural venues, schools) as vape-free. Brussels’ Ordonnance 2025-03 already restricts vaping in all enclosed public areas except designated smoking rooms.
- Private Property Rights: Landlords and business owners in all regions can impose indoor vaping bans via lease agreements or internal policies. Failure to comply with such terms may result in eviction or fines under Article 1729 of the Civil Code (property use violations).
Non-compliance risks fines up to €4,000 (federal) or €2,500 (regional), with repeat offenses escalating penalties. The FOD Volksgezondheid monitors enforcement, while regional inspectors (e.g., Toezicht op de Openbare Hygiëne in Flanders) conduct audits.