Lihue Airport (LIH) is the primary commercial airport on the island of Kauaʻi and operates in accordance with Hawaiʻi’s strict statewide smoking and vaping laws. To protect public health and ensure passenger comfort, LIH enforces a largely smoke-free environment.
Smoking and vaping are permitted only in clearly designated outdoor areas. Travelers who smoke or vape should understand where it is allowed, what is prohibited, and how state law applies while traveling through Kauaʻi.
1. Minimum Age Requirement
The legal age to purchase or use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and vaping devices, is 21 years old for both residents and visitors.
2. Smoke-Free Public Places
Hawaiʻi law prohibits smoking and vaping in most indoor public spaces, including airport terminals. Many outdoor public areas are also smoke-free.
3. Vaping Regulations
Electronic cigarettes and vape devices are regulated the same way as traditional tobacco products.
4. Penalties for Violations
Smoking or vaping in prohibited areas may result in fines starting at $100, with increased penalties for repeat violations.
Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all indoor areas of the airport, including:
Ticketing and check-in counters.
TSA security screening areas.
Boarding gates and hold rooms.
Baggage claim areas.
Restrooms.
Restaurants, shops, and waiting areas.
These rules apply to all tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and vape pens.
Smoking and vaping are allowed only in designated outdoor areas located away from terminal entrances, exits, and pedestrian walkways. These areas are clearly marked with signage and ash receptacles.
Typical Smoking Area Locations at LIH:
Outside the terminal building, beyond immediate entrance areas.
Curbside locations positioned at a safe distance from doors and ventilation systems.
Important: Smoking is not permitted within 20 feet of terminal doors, windows, or air-intake systems.
All indoor terminal spaces.
Inside parking structures or covered walkways.
Pedestrian paths leading directly into the terminal.
Areas near building entrances, exits, or ventilation systems.
TSA screening areas and all post-security zones.
Violations may result in fines or enforcement action.
Smoke Before Entering Security: There are no smoking areas past the TSA checkpoint.
Use Ashtrays Provided: Dispose of cigarette butts properly.
Pack Vaping Devices Correctly: E-cigarettes and spare lithium batteries must be carried in carry-on luggage.
Be Considerate: Be mindful of families, children, and passengers with respiratory conditions.
Environmental Impact: Cigarette butts are a major pollutant on beaches and in the ocean.
Public Health Awareness: Hawaiʻi residents strongly support smoke-free environments.
Lihue Airport (LIH) enforces strict no-smoking and no-vaping policies inside all terminal facilities in compliance with Hawaiʻi law. Designated outdoor smoking areas are available, but only in clearly marked locations.
By following LIH’s smoking rules, travelers can avoid fines, respect local culture, and help preserve Kauaʻi’s clean air and natural beauty for everyone.