San Francisco, United StatesSmoking policy at San Francisco, San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) maintains a strict smoking policy, permitting smoking only in designated outdoor areas located outside the terminal buildings. Travelers should be aware that there are no smoking facilities available once you have passed through security checkpoints. This means that after checking in and going through TSA, you will not find any indoor smoking lounges or outdoor patios accessible from within the secure area of the airport. This policy aligns with many major airports in the United States, emphasizing a smoke-free environment inside the terminals. For those needing to smoke, SFO provides specific outdoor locations. According to updates from March 2019, two primary designated smoking areas are available. One is situated in the International Area near Door 5, described as a decent sitting area equipped with a pole-tray for ash disposal. The other is located in the Domestic Area near Door 13, which is a smaller sitting area also featuring a pole-tray. These areas are easily accessible before entering security or upon exiting the terminal buildings. Travelers should plan their smoking breaks accordingly, ensuring they have enough time to locate these areas and re-enter the airport if necessary. A crucial point for connecting passengers, especially those arriving on international flights or needing to switch between domestic and international terminals, is that you must exit the secure area of the airport to smoke. This involves entering the United States (if arriving internationally), proceeding outside to a designated smoking zone, and then re-entering the terminal and going through security screening again for your onward flight. This process can be time-consuming, so it's vital to factor in ample layover time to avoid missing your connection. The airport's policy does not make exceptions for transit passengers within the secure zone. Furthermore, travelers should be prepared for the cost of tobacco products in the San Francisco Bay Area. The provided information notes that cigarettes can be quite expensive, costing around $15 per pack. It's advisable for smokers to ensure they have enough supplies before arriving at the airport or be prepared for the local prices. Vaping is generally treated similarly to traditional smoking in public spaces and is also not permitted inside the terminals or beyond security. Always adhere to the posted signage and local regulations regarding smoking and vaping to avoid potential fines or penalties. The airport's official website, flysfo.com, is the best resource for the most current information on all airport policies.
