Owais Crawford
Smoking in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is prohibited in most places due to the General Law for the Control of Tobacco, which came into force on January 15, 2023. The law bans smoking in public spaces, including workplaces, beaches, parks, stadiums, and public transportation. While some people continue to smoke in public, the law is enforced by fines for the establishment and confiscation of smoking devices at the airport. Vaping is also illegal in Puerto Vallarta, and those who bring vape devices into the country risk fines and confiscation. However, smoking areas in bars, clubs, and entertainment venues are permitted, but they cannot sell food, drinks, or entertainment. These designated smoking areas must be outdoors, away from entrances and exits, and properly signed to prohibit minor's entry.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smoking in Puerto Vallarta Airport | Smoking areas exist in the airport, but smoking is not permitted in most public spaces in Mexico. |
| Smoking in Puerto Vallarta | Smoking is prohibited in public spaces in Mexico, including workplaces, public squares, beaches, parks, stadiums, public transportation, schools, and universities. |
| Enforcement | Enforcement of the smoking ban is inconsistent, with some reports of smoking in public spaces. Fines are levied on establishments rather than individuals. |
| Vaping | Vaping is illegal in Mexico. Vapes are subject to confiscation and fines at the airport. |
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What You'll Learn
Smoking laws in Puerto Vallarta
On 15 January 2023, Mexico's new anti-smoking law came into effect, making it illegal to smoke in almost all public spaces. This includes workplaces, public squares, beaches, parks, stadiums, public transportation, schools, restaurants, bars, clubs, entertainment venues, public streets, sightseeing venues, and stores. The law also prohibits the display of cigarette packets in commercial establishments, convenience stores, and self-service stores.
Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination in Mexico, is subject to these new regulations, which have been endorsed by the World Health Organization. While the law is clear, its enforcement is still inconsistent. Some people continue to smoke in public spaces, and it seems that the police are not actively enforcing the law, although they may use it as an opportunity to solicit bribes from tourists.
The new law has had an impact on the hospitality industry, with designated smoking areas now subject to strict regulations. These areas must be located outdoors, at least ten meters away from entrances and exits, and must not exceed 10% of the total area of the establishment. They must also have signs prohibiting the entry of minors and cannot sell food, drinks, or provide entertainment.
Despite the new law, some smokers have reported that they are still able to smoke in certain areas, such as hotel balconies and outside the airport. However, it is important to note that the law is still in its early days of enforcement, and the situation may change as businesses and the public become more aware of the regulations.
It is recommended that anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta be mindful of the new smoking laws and respect the designated smoking areas to avoid any potential issues with the authorities or business owners.
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Smoking in the airport
Smoking in the Puerto Vallarta Airport
As of January 15, 2023, smoking has been prohibited in most places in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta. The new law bans the consumption of cigarettes in almost all public spaces, as well as the display of cigarette packets in stores. However, some sources indicate that the ban is not being strictly enforced, especially in the Puerto Vallarta Airport.
One source mentions that they were "shocked" to find a smoking spot outside at the airport in February/March, after the ban had been implemented. They also noticed cigarette butts on the street, indicating that people were still smoking in public spaces. Another source from April 2023 mentions that they saw people smoking "all over" after the ban, including at the airport.
While the law prohibits smoking in public spaces, it is not clear if this includes outdoor smoking areas within the airport. It is possible that the airport has designated smoking areas that are exempt from the ban. However, it is important to be respectful of others and avoid smoking near groups of people or in front of authorities.
In addition to the cigarette ban, it is also illegal to bring vape products into Mexico. Several sources mention being fined or having their vape products confiscated by customs officials at the Puerto Vallarta Airport. It is important to note that these products are still available for purchase within the country, but it is risky and expensive to bring them through customs.
If you are a smoker travelling to Puerto Vallarta, it is advisable to be respectful of the law and only smoke in designated areas, away from children and populated areas. While enforcement of the ban may vary, it is important to be mindful of the health and comfort of those around you.
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Vaping laws in Puerto Vallarta
Bringing vaping devices into the country is also prohibited, and travellers who bring them risk fines at customs. The immigration scanners at Puerto Vallarta airport are said to be able to detect vape pens, and customs officials are reported to be actively searching for them. Fines for bringing vaping devices into the country range from $20 to $200, and in some cases, the devices are confiscated.
Despite the laws, vaping and smoking continue to occur in public spaces in Puerto Vallarta. Travellers are advised to be respectful and avoid vaping or smoking in populated areas, especially around children and in front of police officers.
The new regulations of the General Law for the Control of Tobacco, which came into force on January 15, 2023, prohibit smoking in most places in Mexico. This includes workplaces, public squares, beaches, parks, stadiums, public transportation, schools, and restaurants. Smoking areas in bars, clubs, and entertainment venues must be located outdoors, away from entrances and exits, and must not exceed 10% of the total area of the establishment.
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Bringing cigarettes into the country
As of January 15, 2023, a new law in Mexico prohibits smoking in most public spaces, including Puerto Vallarta. However, this does not seem to have stopped people from smoking in practice. One source from January 2023 mentions that people were smoking everywhere, and another from April 2023 mentions that people were smoking at the airport.
In terms of bringing cigarettes into the country, one source mentions that you are allowed to bring up to 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars into Mexico without declaring them. Another source mentions that they brought 5 boxes of cigars into Puerto Vallarta without any issues.
However, it is important to note that the legal landscape around smoking in Puerto Vallarta may be changing. One source mentions that they were fined $30 USD at airport security for carrying a vape. Another mentions that they were charged $200 USD for carrying a vape, but were allowed to keep it.
Therefore, while it may be technically legal to bring cigarettes into Puerto Vallarta, there is a risk of being fined or having your cigarettes confiscated, especially if you are carrying a large quantity. It may be safer to purchase cigarettes or vapes within Puerto Vallarta, as there are many vape shops and tobacco vendors throughout the city.
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Enforcement of smoking laws
As of January 15, 2023, new regulations under the General Law for the Control of Tobacco came into force, prohibiting smoking in most places in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta. This law makes it illegal to consume cigarettes in almost all public spaces and restricts the display of cigarette packets in commercial settings. Despite this, some sources indicate that the smoking ban is not being strictly enforced in Puerto Vallarta, with people continuing to smoke in public spaces.
In Puerto Vallarta, the enforcement of smoking laws appears to vary. While some individuals report being fined for smoking in prohibited areas, others observe a general lack of enforcement. The law prohibits smoking in workplaces, public squares, beaches, parks, stadiums, public transportation, schools, and universities. Restaurants are no longer permitted to provide smoking areas, and smoking areas in bars, clubs, and entertainment venues cannot sell food, drinks, or entertainment. These designated smoking areas must meet specific requirements, including being located outdoors and away from entrances and exits.
At the Puerto Vallarta airport, there have been mixed reports about the enforcement of smoking laws. One person mentioned seeing a smoking spot outside the airport as recently as February/March 2023, while another individual from the same period noted the presence of cigarette butts on the street. However, with the new smoking regulations in place, it is likely that the airport is now smoke-free, and smokers may need to use designated smoking areas or respect non-smoking rules.
When it comes to vaping, there have been several reports of people being fined or charged for bringing vape products into Puerto Vallarta through the airport. Customs officials may confiscate vape devices and impose on-the-spot fines ranging from $20 to $200 USD. Some travelers have also reported being searched and charged after attempting to bring nicotine vapes into the country. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from bringing vape products into Puerto Vallarta to avoid potential fines and confiscation.
While the new smoking laws in Puerto Vallarta restrict smoking in most public spaces, the level of enforcement may vary depending on the location and the authorities present. It is always advisable to be respectful of others and follow the smoking regulations in place, including any designated smoking areas, to avoid potential fines or negative impacts on others and the environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces in Mexico, including workplaces, public squares, beaches, parks, stadiums, and public transportation. However, some people have reported that there is still a smoking spot outside at the Puerto Vallarta airport. It is recommended to be respectful and smoke away from groups, especially children.
Yes, you can bring cigarettes into Puerto Vallarta. There is no need to declare cigarettes when travelling to the city, and you are allowed to bring up to 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars into the country.
As of November 2023, it is illegal to bring vapes into Mexico. Scanners at the Puerto Vallarta airport will detect vape pens, and travellers have reported being fined between $20 and $200 USD for carrying them. It is recommended to purchase vapes from local shops instead.
