SmokingAirports.comSmokingAirports.com

Richmond, Canada

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

2.5
Smoking Policy:Limited

Smoking policy at Richmond, Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Travelers passing through Vancouver International Airport (YVR) should be aware that the airport maintains a very strict smoking policy. Smoking is explicitly prohibited inside all terminal buildings, meaning there are absolutely no indoor smoking lounges or designated areas available once you have passed through security. This policy applies universally across all terminals at YVR, ensuring a smoke-free environment within the airport's operational areas. For those who wish to smoke, the only permissible locations are in designated outdoor areas situated outside the terminal buildings. These areas are typically found near the main entrances and exits of the terminals, clearly marked with signage indicating where smoking is allowed. It is crucial for passengers to utilize these specific zones, as smoking elsewhere on airport property outside these designated spots is not permitted and may result in penalties. A significant point for international travelers, particularly those with connecting flights, is that if you need to smoke, you must first clear Canadian customs and immigration, exit the secure area of the terminal to access the outdoor designated smoking zones, and then re-enter the terminal and go through security screening again for your onward flight. This process can be time-consuming and should be factored into your layover schedule to avoid missing your connection. There are no provisions for smoking between connecting flights without re-entering Canada. Vaping is generally treated similarly to traditional smoking in Canadian public spaces and airports. While not explicitly detailed in the provided information, it is highly advisable to assume that vaping is also restricted to the same designated outdoor areas as traditional cigarettes. Attempting to vape inside the terminal or in non-designated outdoor areas could lead to similar consequences as smoking. Therefore, travelers should plan accordingly and make use of the outdoor facilities before proceeding through security or upon arrival. Always look for official airport signage for the most current information regarding smoking and vaping policies.

Warnings & Caveats

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside all terminal buildings at YVR. For connecting flights, you must exit the secure area, clear Canadian customs, smoke outside, and then re-enter through security for your next flight. This requires sufficient layover time. Smoking outside designated outdoor areas on airport property is not permitted and may result in fines or penalties.

Before Security

Yes

Smoking is permitted before security checkpoints

After Security

No

Smoking is not allowed after security checkpoints

Vaping

Not Allowed

Vaping and e-cigarettes are prohibited at this airport

Smoking areas at Richmond, Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Designated Smoking Areas Outside Terminals

High

All Terminals

Outdoor AreaPublic Area

These are the only locations where smoking is permitted at Vancouver International Airport. They are located outside the terminal buildings, accessible before security checkpoints.

Directions

Look for signage indicating designated smoking areas outside the main terminal entrances/exits.

Airport location

Open in Google Maps

Can you exit and re-enter?

Yes, you can exit the terminal and re-enter after smoking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Submit a Correction

Is this information wrong or outdated? Help us keep it accurate.

Submit a Correction

Airport: Vancouver International Airport

Official Website

www.yvr.ca/

Last verified

April 9, 2026

Confidence level

High

Recently verified from official sources

Airport smoking policies can change without notice. Always check locally on arrival.