Why Smoking Shelters Matter in the UK
Since the Smoking Ban under the Health Act 2006 (effective July 1, 2007), smoking in indoor public places and workplaces across the UK has been illegal. Although there is no legal requirement to install a smoking shelter, employers and premises owners are strongly encouraged to provide a designated outdoor smoking area to promote staff welfare, protect non-smokers, minimise fire risk, and reduce litter. Providing a well-designed smoking shelter is not just about compliance—it’s also about reflecting corporate responsibility, improving site appearance, supporting staff morale, and optimising workplace efficiency.
Understanding the Options
Wall‑Mounted Smoking Shelters are canopies attached directly to the exterior wall of a building. They require minimal ground space and are ideal for tight areas like walkways and near narrow fire escapes.
Free‑Standing Smoking Shelters are standalone structures anchored into the ground. They offer larger capacity, more protection, and higher customisation options, but need more space and installation work.
Key Compliance Requirements in the UK
Both shelter types must comply with UK law:
- Have at least 50 % open perimeter to avoid being classed as an enclosed space.
- Keep clear of building entrances, operable windows, and ventilation intakes to prevent second-hand smoke from drifting indoors.
- Made from non‑combustible, weather‑resistant materials such as galvanised steel and polycarbonate glazing panels.
- Suitable drainage or flooring to prevent slipping hazards.
- Accessibility features (e.g. wheelchair access), fire safety signage, bins, and extinguishers must be considered.
- Planning permission/building regulations may be needed, especially for free‑standing shelters or larger structures.
Wall‑Mounted Smoking Shelters
✅ Advantages
Space-Saving & Compact:
It takes up minimal ground space and is ideal for urban or constrained locations.
Quick & Low-Cost Installation:
Can be installed for as little as £400+, depending on size and features.
Modern Aesthetic + Branding:
Powder-coated frames are available in corporate colours and can feature logos or graphics.
Adequate Weather Protection:
Translucent polycarbonate roof sheets provide up to 97 % UV protection.
Ventilation Compliance:
Naturally open sides ensure good airflow and legal compliance
❌Drawbacks
Limited Capacity:
Most models accommodate 3–8 users, which may be insufficient for larger staff bases or busy public venues.
Dependence on Wall Structure:
Requires a sturdy, load-bearing wall for installation.
Minimal Side Protection:
Offers less protection from lateral wind or rain compared to free‑standing options.
Free‑Standing Smoking Shelters
✅ Advantages
Greater Capacity & Flexibility:
Options range from compact units (4–6 users) up to XL shelters for 15–20+ users.
Enhanced Protection:
Fully framed and optionally panelled, these can include seating, lighting, and ashtrays—suitable for adverse weather
Customisation Options
Add glass or polycarbonate panels, branding decals, lighting, and benches—ideal for commercial premises.
Mobile & Standalone
No reliance on existing structures; can be relocated or expanded easily.
❌Drawbacks
Space & Ground Preparation:
Requires sufficient outdoor area and sometimes groundwork such as concrete foundations to accommodate the ground fixings.
Higher Installation Cost:
Prices typically start from £600–£2,000 but can reach £6,000+ with extras.
Maintenance Intensity:
More sides mean more exposure to dust, rain and require regular cleaning.
Cost & Installation Comparison
|
Feature: |
Wall mounted: |
Free standing: |
|
Typical Price: |
£400–£1,500+ |
£750–£6,000+ |
|
Installation Complexity: |
Bolted to wall/base |
Ground works + anchoring |
|
Capacity Range: |
3–8 smokers |
4–20+ smokers |
|
Flexibility: |
Fixed location |
Relocatable/expandable |
|
Weather Protection: |
Roof + open sides |
Roof + partial/full panels |
|
Upkeep: |
Easier maintenance |
Requires occasional full cleaning and panel care |
Additional Considerations
Vaping vs. Smoking
Vaping is not regulated under the Smoke-Free law, so vape-specific shelters can be more enclosed. However, mixing smokers and vapers often works well, provided shelters respect the 50 % open requirement.
Planning and Regulations
Building regs or planning permission may apply for large or free-standing units. Local councils may impose additional requirements, like metal ashtrays, signage, and extinguishers.
Fire Safety & Hygiene
Position shelters away from fire hazards; add sturdy cigarette bins to reduce fire and litter risk.
Accessibility & Staff Welfare
Ensure wheelchair access and a thoughtful layout to support employee wellbeing. These shelters can also encourage short, structured breaks, helping productivity and company morale.
Final Recommendations
✅ Choose Wall‑Mounted If You Need:
- A cost-effective, quick install under £1,500
- To save outdoor space or attach to an existing building
- A sleek canopy with branding and basic protection
✅ Choose Free‑Standing If You Want:
- To host larger groups (6–20+ users)
- A feature-rich, sheltered structure with lighting, seating and full panel protection
- Flexibility to move or expand the unit over time
Quick FAQ
Do I need planning permission?
Maybe, particularly for large free‑standing shelters. Always check with your local council and building regs reviewer.
What is the cost range?
Wall-mounted units start around £595, while free‑standing units range from £699 to £6,000+, depending on size and extras.
How many smokers can fit?
Wall-mounted shelters typically suit 3–8 users; free-standing options accommodate 4–20+.
Are vaping shelters different?
Yes—vaping shelters don’t have to meet the 50 % open rule, but many businesses combine them with smoking shelters anyway.
Case Study Example
A Manchester logistics firm initially used wall-mounted canopies for five staff. During peak shifts, smokers crowded car park corners. After consulting Tamstar, they installed an XL Venue free‑standing smoking shelter with benches and ashtrays. Results included:
- Higher capacity (from 6 to 15+ users)
- Improved staff comfort and satisfaction
- Cleaner environment, with most cigarette butts now binned
This demonstrates how choosing the right shelter can yield real ROI in terms of employee welfare and reduced maintenance costs.
Conclusion
Both wall‑mounted and free‑standing smoking shelters have distinct benefits. Wall-mounted canopies are compact, affordable, and fast to install—excellent for smaller locations. Free-standing units, meanwhile, support larger numbers of users and offer enhanced protection and customisation, albeit with increased cost and space demands.