Is Vaping Legal in Bars in Ohio?

If you’re a vaper in Ohio, you may be wondering if it’s legal to use your e-cigarette or vape in bars. The answer is not straightforward, as there are different regulations in place depending on where you are in the state.

As of September 30, 2021, a statewide vaping ban is in place in Ohio, according to Chapter 3794 of the Ohio Revised Code. This means that vaping is prohibited in all places where smoking is prohibited, which includes bars and restaurants. However, there is an exception for retail establishments that make at least 80% of their gross revenue from the sale of vaping products.

It’s important to note that there may also be additional local regulations in place that prohibit vaping in bars and other establishments. For example, some municipalities such as Bexley, Grandview Heights, and Mount Vernon have ordinances that prohibit vaping where smoking is prohibited, with some exceptions for bars and restaurants. It’s always a good idea to check with the establishment or local authorities before vaping in public places.

Current Legislation on Vaping in Ohio

If you’re wondering whether vaping is legal in bars in Ohio, the answer is no. Ohio law prohibits smoking and vaping in most indoor public places, including bars and restaurants. The Ohio Smoke-Free Workplace Act prohibits smoking and vaping in enclosed public places and places of employment, with few exceptions.

The law defines smoking as “inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe, or other lighted smoking device for burning tobacco or any other plant.” This definition includes vaping devices that contain nicotine or other substances.

Although Ohio law does not prohibit the use of vaping devices in private residences, it is important to note that individual property owners may choose to prohibit vaping on their premises.

It is also worth noting that Ohio has a Tobacco 21 law that prohibits the sale of all tobacco and vapor products to anyone under the age of 21 years old. This law became effective on December 20, 2019, and states may choose to continue with current age law at the risk of losing federal funding.

In addition, Ohio has regulations in place for e-cigarette packaging. Alternative nicotine products must be sold in the same minimum quantities as the manufacturer’s container. Vapor products are taxed at a rate of $0.01 per vapor volume.

Overall, it is important to be aware of Ohio’s laws and regulations regarding smoking and vaping in public places, as well as the age restrictions for purchasing tobacco and vapor products.

Bar-Specific Laws and Regulations

If you’re wondering whether vaping is allowed in bars in Ohio, the answer is no. Ohio Revised Code § 3794.02 prohibits smoking in public places, which includes bars and restaurants. The law defines smoking as “inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe, or other lighted smoking device for burning tobacco or any other plant.”

This means that vaping is also prohibited in bars and restaurants in Ohio. If you’re caught vaping in a bar, you could face a fine of up to $100. Additionally, the bar owner could face fines of up to $2,500 for allowing vaping on their premises.

It’s important to note that Ohio’s smoking ban applies to all indoor public places, not just bars and restaurants. This includes workplaces, schools, and public transportation. There are a few exceptions to the ban, such as private residences, outdoor patios, and certain designated smoking areas in hotels and nursing homes.

In summary, if you’re planning to visit a bar in Ohio and you’re a vaper, you’ll need to leave your device at home or in your car. Vaping is not allowed in bars or any other indoor public places in Ohio.

Penalties for Violation

If you violate Ohio’s smoking laws, including those pertaining to vaping, you could face a fine or even jail time. The penalties for violating Ohio’s smoking laws are as follows:

• For a first offense, you could be fined up to $100.
• For a second offense, you could be fined up to $250.
• For a third or subsequent offense, you could be fined up to $500 and/or face up to 30 days in jail.

It’s important to note that these penalties apply to both the person who is smoking or vaping and the owner or operator of the establishment where the violation occurred. That means if you’re caught vaping in a bar that doesn’t allow it, both you and the bar owner could be fined.

Additionally, if you’re caught selling vaping products to someone under the age of 21, you could face fines and even jail time. As of October 17, 2019, it is illegal to give, sell, or distribute cigarettes, other tobacco products, or alternative nicotine products like e-cigarette/vaping products to anyone under the age of 21 in Ohio. The exact language of the law can be found in Ohio Revised Code 2927.02.

To avoid these penalties, it’s important to follow Ohio’s smoking laws and regulations, including those that pertain to vaping. If you’re unsure whether vaping is allowed in a particular establishment, it’s always best to ask the owner or operator before using your device.

Public Opinion on Vaping in Bars

While vaping in bars is legal in Ohio, it is important to consider public opinion on the matter. Some people are in favor of allowing vaping in bars, while others are against it.

One argument in favor of allowing vaping in bars is that it can help smokers transition to a less harmful alternative. Vaping has been shown to be less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, and allowing vaping in bars could provide smokers with a less harmful way to satisfy their nicotine cravings.

On the other hand, some people are concerned about the potential health risks associated with secondhand vapor. While research on the health effects of secondhand vapor is still limited, some studies have suggested that it could be harmful to non-vapers.

Ultimately, public opinion on vaping in bars is divided. Some people believe that it should be allowed, while others believe that it should be banned. It is important for policymakers to consider both sides of the argument when making decisions about vaping in bars.

In summary, while vaping in bars is legal in Ohio, it is important to consider public opinion on the matter. Some people believe that it can help smokers transition to a less harmful alternative, while others are concerned about the potential health risks associated with secondhand vapor.

Comparison with Other States

If you’re wondering whether vaping is legal in bars in Ohio, you might also be curious about the laws in other nearby states. Here’s a quick comparison of Ohio’s vaping laws with those of Michigan, Indiana, and Pennsylvania.

Michigan

Michigan has some of the strictest vaping laws in the country. In 2019, the state banned the sale of flavored e-cigarettes, including menthol, and in 2020, it prohibited the use of e-cigarettes in most public places. This includes bars, restaurants, and workplaces. However, the law does allow for vaping in specialty vape shops that meet certain requirements.

Indiana

Indiana’s vaping laws are a bit more lenient than Michigan’s, but still stricter than Ohio’s. The state has banned the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and requires all e-cigarette products to be registered with the state. In addition, e-cigarettes are prohibited in schools and on school buses. However, there is no statewide ban on vaping in bars, restaurants, or other public places.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s vaping laws are similar to Ohio’s. The state has banned the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and prohibits vaping in schools and on school buses. However, there is no statewide ban on vaping in bars or restaurants. Some localities in the state have enacted their own restrictions on vaping in public places, so it’s important to check local laws if you’re unsure.

Overall, Ohio’s vaping laws are relatively permissive compared to some neighboring states. While there are some restrictions on where you can vape, you can still legally use e-cigarettes in most bars and restaurants in the state. However, it’s important to keep in mind that laws can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations in your area.

Health Considerations

When it comes to vaping in bars in Ohio, there are some important health considerations to keep in mind. While vaping is often touted as a safer alternative to smoking, it is not without its risks.

One of the main health concerns associated with vaping is the potential for lung damage. Vaping involves inhaling aerosolized liquid, which can contain a variety of chemicals and additives. While some of these chemicals are relatively harmless, others can be quite harmful when inhaled in large quantities.

In addition to the potential for lung damage, there are also concerns about the impact of vaping on heart health. Nicotine, which is present in many vaping products, can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with pre-existing heart conditions.

It’s also worth noting that vaping can have an impact on indoor air quality. While vaping produces less smoke than traditional cigarettes, it still produces aerosolized particles that can linger in the air and potentially be harmful to those who breathe them in.

Overall, while vaping may be considered a safer alternative to smoking, it is not without its risks. If you choose to vape in a bar in Ohio, it’s important to be aware of these potential health concerns and take steps to minimize your risk. This may include using vaping products that are free of harmful chemicals and additives, avoiding vaping in enclosed spaces, and being mindful of the impact of your vaping on those around you.

Recommendations for Bar Owners

If you are a bar owner in Ohio, it is important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding vaping in your establishment. Here are some recommendations to help you navigate the legal landscape and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for your customers.

1. Familiarize Yourself with Ohio’s Vaping Laws

Ohio has specific laws that regulate the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices. It is important to familiarize yourself with these laws to ensure that your establishment is in compliance. For example, Ohio law prohibits the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices in enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants.

2. Post Signs to Inform Customers of the Law

To ensure that your customers are aware of Ohio’s vaping laws, consider posting signs in your establishment. These signs can inform customers that vaping is not allowed in the bar and may help to prevent any confusion or misunderstandings.

3. Train Your Staff to Enforce the Law

It is important to train your staff to enforce Ohio’s vaping laws. Your staff should be able to recognize when customers are using e-cigarettes or vaping devices and politely inform them that it is not allowed in the bar. This can help to prevent any potential conflicts or confrontations.

4. Provide Designated Smoking Areas

If you want to accommodate customers who wish to vape, consider providing a designated smoking area outside of your establishment. This can provide a safe and comfortable space for customers to use their e-cigarettes or vaping devices without violating Ohio’s laws.

5. Consider Implementing a No Vaping Policy

While providing a designated smoking area may be an option, you may also consider implementing a no vaping policy in your establishment. This can help to ensure that your establishment is in compliance with Ohio’s laws and may also help to create a more comfortable environment for all of your customers.

By following these recommendations, you can help to ensure that your establishment is in compliance with Ohio’s vaping laws and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for your customers.