Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest airports in the world, welcoming millions of travelers every year. With such high passenger volume, ATL maintains strict regulations to ensure safety, cleanliness, and comfort for everyone. One of the most important policies travelers should be aware of is the airport’s smoking and vaping policy. ATL is a non-smoking airport, meaning smoking is not allowed inside terminals or beyond security checkpoints. However, designated outdoor smoking areas are available for passengers who need them.
ATL follows the City of Atlanta’s comprehensive smoke-free ordinance, which strictly prohibits smoking and vaping inside all airport buildings. This policy applies to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and electronic smoking devices such as e-cigarettes and vape pens. Enforcement is handled by the Atlanta Police Department, and violations can result in civil penalties of up to $200. To remain compliant, passengers must use the designated Atlanta Airport smoking area, which is located outdoors and safely positioned away from terminal entrances in accordance with city regulations.
Smoking is only permitted in clearly marked outdoor areas located at least 25 feet away from terminal entrances. These rules are in place to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke and maintain a clean airport environment.
While indoor smoking lounges are no longer available, ATL provides designated smoking zones outside both the Domestic and International Terminals. These areas are positioned near curbside locations on both departure and arrival levels, allowing passengers to step outside briefly before checking in or after landing.
At the Domestic Terminal, smoking areas are located on both the North and South sides, with access available from the lower (arrivals) and upper (departures) levels. Similarly, the International Terminal offers smoking zones outside the departures and arrivals areas. All locations are clearly marked with signage to help passengers identify them easily.
It’s important to note that smoking areas are only accessible before passing through TSA security or after exiting the secured area. Once you have cleared security, smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the terminal.
There are no smoking areas after security at ATL Airport. All former indoor smoking lounges and post-security smoking rooms have been permanently closed. Passengers who wish to smoke must exit the secure area entirely and use the outdoor smoking zones, then re-enter the terminal and go through security screening again.
Because re-clearing security can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel hours, travelers are strongly advised to plan accordingly. If you have a short layover, leaving the secure area to smoke may not be practical.
ATL defines smoking as inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted tobacco product. Vaping includes the use of electronic devices that produce vapor, such as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, and nicotine cartridges of any size or form.
Key rules include:
Following these guidelines helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience while traveling through the airport.