Crime & Traffic

Legal smoking age

The legal smoking age in Illinois is 21 years old.

This means that no one under the age of 21 can buy tobacco products. Tobacco products include cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and alternative nicotine products. A few examples of e-cigarettes are: 

• Vape pens;
• Electronic hookahs; and
• Electronic cigars. 

Starting January 1, 2025, it is illegal to ship e-cigarettes ordered online or by mail to anyone under 21 years old. Also, manufacturers cannot market e-cigarettes in a way that could mislead people into believing they are not tobacco products.

Alternative nicotine products are products that do not contain tobacco, but do have nicotine. Examples of alternative nicotine products include:

• Nicotine gum;
• Nicotine lozenges; and
• Nicotine patches.

Non-smoking areas

In Illinois, there are certain locations that are required to be smoke free. This includes the use of e-cigarettes or vaping. You can not smoke in:

• College dorms;
• Public places;
• Businesses; or
• Within 15 feet of any entrance to a public place or business.

A public place would be any building or vehicle that is used by the public, and open to the public. This could include buildings owned or leased by the government. You are able to smoke outdoors, but not within 15 feet of an entrance to an area where smoking is not allowed. 

Smoking in a vehicle

It is against the law to smoke in a car while a person under 18 years old is present. It is illegal even if the car is parked, and if the windows are open. This does not apply to e-cigarettes. It is still legal to use an e-cigarette while minors are in the car. 

A violation of this law is considered a petty offense. A fine up to $100 can be given for the first violation of this law. If there is a second violation, the fine can be as high as $250.