Where Can I Smoke at LAX Airport? | Complete LAX Smoking Guide 2025

If you are wondering where can I smoke at LAX airport, you are not alone. LAX is one of the busiest airports in the United States and one of the most restrictive when it comes to smoking.
The short answer: you cannot smoke or vape anywhere indoors or past security checkpoints at Los Angeles International Airport.
However, designated outdoor smoking areas are available outside each terminal before security screening. These areas are the only approved spaces for cigarette and vape use on airport property.

This detailed guide explains where you can smoke at LAX, how to find each smoking section by terminal, what the vaping policy includes, and what travelers should know before lighting up.

Smoking Policy Overview

LAX follows California’s statewide Smoke-Free Workplace Law and Los Angeles city health regulations, both of which prohibit indoor smoking in public facilities.
That means no smoking or vaping in terminals, restaurants, lounges, boarding areas, restrooms, or any part of the airside area after passing through TSA.
Violating this rule can result in fines and removal from secure zones.

Instead, the airport provides clearly marked outdoor smoking zones on the arrivals and departures levels of each terminal. These are located outside the terminal doors, typically at the far ends of the curb areas. All smoking and vaping must take place there.

Where Can I Smoke Before Security at LAX?

Each of the nine passenger terminals at Los Angeles International Airport offers one or more designated outdoor smoking areas located near curbside entrances.
Below is a terminal-by-terminal breakdown.

Terminal 1 (Southwest Airlines):
Outdoor smoking zones are available near doors 1 and 7 on both the upper (departures) and lower (arrivals) levels. Ashtrays and waste bins are provided.

Terminal 2:
The main outdoor smoking section is located near Door 2 on the arrivals level, next to the curbside pickup lane.

Terminal 3 (Delta):
Smoking is allowed in the designated outdoor space near Door 6 on the departures level.

Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT):
Smokers can use the outdoor courtyards at the west end of the terminal. These areas are popular for international travelers connecting between flights and are among the largest outdoor smoking sections at LAX.

Terminals 4 through 8:
Each of these terminals has a smoking section outside baggage claim and ticketing areas on both levels. Look for the yellow “Designated Smoking Area” signs near the far ends of the curb.

All smoking areas are open 24 hours a day and are equipped with ash receptacles. Travelers should note that California law also prohibits smoking within 20 feet of any airport entrance or open window, so staying within the marked boundaries is required.

Can You Smoke After Security at LAX?

No. Once you pass through TSA, there are no smoking or vaping areas available in any terminal.
LAX removed all indoor smoking lounges years ago to comply with state health regulations.
Unlike some international airports, LAX does not offer smoking cabins or terraces beyond the security checkpoints.

If you want to smoke before a long flight, you must do so before entering security, as re-entry will require going through TSA screening again.

Can You Leave and Re-Enter to Smoke?

Yes, travelers may exit the secure zone to smoke, but doing so involves leaving the terminal entirely and passing through security again upon return.
If you have a long layover or a delay, you can step outside to use one of the designated areas. Allow at least 30 to 45 minutes to return through security, especially during busy travel hours.
This option is not recommended if your boarding time is near or if you have a tight connection.

Vaping and E-Cigarette Rules at LAX

Vaping and e-cigarette use fall under the same restrictions as smoking.
Travelers can only vape in the outdoor smoking areas before security.
Using or charging vape devices inside the terminals, restrooms, or boarding areas is not allowed.

Passengers should also note that carrying vape batteries or devices in checked baggage is restricted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Always keep vape pens and lithium batteries in your carry-on.

Marijuana and Cannabis Use

Even though recreational marijuana is legal in California, it remains illegal on airport property.
The Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) authority explicitly prohibits smoking, vaping, or consuming cannabis anywhere at LAX, including outdoor smoking zones.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers enforce federal law, and possession of cannabis on airport grounds can lead to confiscation or referral to law enforcement.

Traveler Tips for Smokers at LAX

Plan ahead. Smoke before going through security to avoid having to exit and re-enter.

Bring disposable lighters only. Torch and jet flame lighters are prohibited by TSA.

Check connecting airports. Many U.S. airports (such as JFK and SFO) also ban smoking after security.

For long layovers, consider the Theme Building outdoor courtyard, located between Terminals 3 and 4. It’s fully outdoors and allows smoking.

Be respectful. Only smoke in signed areas to avoid fines and maintain clean conditions for other travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I smoke in airline lounges at LAX?
No. Airline lounges such as Delta Sky Club, United Club, and American Admirals Club are entirely smoke-free.

Are there any post-security terraces for smoking?
No. While some airports abroad (like Dubai or Frankfurt) have post-security terraces, LAX does not offer any.

Can I smoke in restrooms or near emergency exits?
Absolutely not. Indoor smoking is a violation of airport and city law and can result in a fine or ejection.

Are there 24-hour smoking areas?
Yes. The outdoor curbside smoking sections are accessible at all hours.

Can I bring cigarettes through TSA?
Yes, cigarettes are allowed in carry-on bags. However, lighters must be disposable, and matches are limited to one book per traveler.

Summary of LAX Smoking Policy

Smoking allowed: Outdoor areas before security at each terminal.

Smoking not allowed: Inside terminals, post-security, or in any lounges.

Vaping: Permitted only in outdoor smoking zones.

Marijuana: Prohibited everywhere on airport grounds.

Hours: 24/7 access to designated areas outside terminals.

LAX has some of the strictest non-smoking policies among U.S. airports, so travelers should plan accordingly and make use of the outdoor areas before check-in. For international travelers, note that other airports may have smoking lounges after security, but Los Angeles International Airport remains entirely smoke-free indoors.