Where can you smoke in Georgia, and what are the fines?
The indoor ban, hookahs and e-cigarettes, and fines.
Short answer
In Georgia you cannot smoke inside buildings and enclosed spaces, including cafes, restaurants and bars, or on most public transport. Smoking is allowed outdoors and on open terraces unless a separate ban applies. The ban covers e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and hookahs, and both the smoker and the venue can be fined.
Why
- The indoor smoking ban has applied since 2018 under Georgia's Law on Tobacco Control.
- The law treats e-cigarettes and heated tobacco like cigarettes.
- Fines are set by the Administrative Offences Code: 500 GEL for a venue, 1,000 GEL for a repeat offence.
Details
That is why hookahs are served only in open-air areas. The law makes exceptions for some places, such as licensed cigar bars and casinos. Cigarettes are not displayed in shops; you have to ask the cashier.
Tip
Smoke only where there's an ashtray or a designated-area sign, and ask staff if unsure.
What may differ
Rules are softer on open terraces and in designated areas, which are marked with signs.
Common misconception
You can always smoke on a café's summer veranda.
What actually happens
Only if the terrace is genuinely open. Glazed or enclosed verandas count as indoor spaces.
People also ask
- Can you smoke in restaurants in Georgia?
Sources
- Law of Georgia on Tobacco ControlChecked at:
- Administrative Offences Code of GeorgiaChecked at:
This answer is for reference only and is not legal advice. Laws change, so check the official text on Matsne.
What not to do in GeorgiaRelated questions
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When and where can you set off fireworks in Georgia?
Fireworks in Georgia are sold and imported under permits, some categories are for certificate holders only, and breaking the rules in a public place is fined 2,500 GEL.
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Can you cross the road in the wrong place in Georgia and what is the fine?
In Georgia you cross at a pedestrian crossing or junction, and a pedestrian who ignores signals, signs or markings faces a 50 GEL fine, or 100 GEL on highways.
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Can you make a campfire and grill kebabs outdoors in Georgia?
In Georgian forests a campfire is allowed only in specially designated places, and the fine for breaking fire safety rules in a forest is 100 to 200 GEL.
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Can you fly a drone in Georgia and is registration required?
Drones are allowed in Georgia under Civil Aviation Agency rules, and the operator of a drone of 250 grams or more must register for free on the unmanned aircraft platform.