No, you are not allowed to smoke in most limousines today. Nearly all limo companies now ban smoking in their vehicles. If you break this rule, you could face hefty cleaning fees ranging from $200 to $400 or more.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about smoking rules in limos. We’ll cover the laws, company policies, costs, and what happens if you get caught smoking. You’ll also learn about alternatives if you need to smoke during your ride.
Why Most Limo Companies Ban Smoking
Health and Safety Concerns
Eliminating smoking in indoor spaces is the only way to fully protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke exposure, according to the US Surgeon General. Limos are enclosed spaces, making them dangerous for non-smokers when someone lights up.
Secondhand smoke can cause serious health problems, including:
- Lung cancer
- Heart disease
- Breathing problems
- Asthma attacks
Odor Problems That Won’t Go Away
Tobacco smoke infiltrates seat fabric, vehicle walls, and flooring. The smell sticks around for a long time, even after deep cleaning. This makes the limo unpleasant for the next customers.
Think about it – would you want to rent a limo that smells like stale cigarettes for your wedding or special event? Most people wouldn’t.
Expensive Damage and Cleaning
Smoke damage goes beyond just the smell. It can:
- Stain walls and ceilings yellow
- Damage upholstery and carpets
- Get into air vents and systems
- Leave sticky residue on surfaces
Professional smoke removal can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 depending on how bad the damage is.
Legal Rules About Smoking in Limos
Federal and State Laws
The good news is that there’s no federal law that bans smoking in all limos. However, state laws vary widely across the country.
Some states have special rules for limos:
- Alaska allows smoking in limousines if the driver and all passengers consent to smoking
- Alabama exempts limousines under private hire from smoking regulations
- Iowa allows smoking in limousines under private hire
Local City and County Rules
Cities and counties can make their own stricter rules. For example, some places ban smoking in all vehicles used for hire, including limos.
When Children Are Present
Many states have strict laws about smoking when kids are in the vehicle. Smoking in cars with children under 18 was banned in the state of California in 2007, and similar rules exist in other states.
Even if your state allows smoking in limos, the law might change if there are minors in the vehicle.
Company Policies Are Stricter Than Laws
Most Companies Say No
Most limousine companies’ contracts forbid the use of cigarettes and other tobacco products in their vehicles. This is a business decision, not just a legal one.
Companies ban smoking because:
- It damages their expensive vehicles
- It creates bad experiences for other customers
- It leads to complaints and bad reviews
- It costs money to clean and repair
Written Contracts and Rules
When you book a limo, you’ll sign a contract. There will be NO SMOKING or EATING in any of the limousines contracted is a common rule you’ll see.
These contracts are legally binding. If you break them, the company can charge you fees and even end your service early.
How Much Does Smoking in a Limo Cost?
Cleaning Fees Can Be Huge
If you smoke in a limo, expect to pay big cleaning fees. Here’s what companies typically charge:
- Basic cleaning fee: $200-$300
- Standard smoking fee: $400
- Severe damage: $500-$2,000+
A $400 cleaning fee will be assessed to cover the cost of vehicle cleaning when evidence of smoking is present according to major rental companies.
Why Fees Are So High
The fees aren’t just punishment – they cover real costs:
- Taking the car out of service – The limo can’t be rented while it’s being cleaned
- Professional cleaning – Regular cleaning won’t remove smoke odor
- Lost revenue – The company loses money when the car can’t work
- Replacement items – Damaged parts might need replacing
Additional Costs
Beyond cleaning fees, you might also pay for:
- Carpet replacement: $1,500-$5,000
- Upholstery repair: $1,000-$3,000
- Air system cleaning: $300-$700
What Happens If You Get Caught Smoking
During Your Ride
If your driver catches you smoking:
- They can ask you to stop immediately
- They might pull over and make you put it out
- They could end your service without a refund
- You’ll still be charged the full amount plus fees
Any behaviour that can come across as dangerous to yourself or others is not acceptable. This could end in the termination of services.
After Your Ride
Even if you don’t get caught during the ride, companies can still charge you later. They might find evidence like:
- Cigarette smell in the vehicle
- Ash or cigarette butts
- Burn marks on seats or carpet
- Stains on surfaces
All an employee must do is catch a whiff of tobacco smoke to charge the cleaning fee.
Fighting False Charges
Some people get charged smoking fees even when they didn’t smoke. To protect yourself:
- Take photos of the limo when you get in
- Take photos when you get out
- Keep receipts and documentation
- Report any existing odors to the driver immediately
Alternatives If You Need to Smoke
Ask for Smoke Breaks
Most chauffeurs will be happy to stop and accommodate a cigarette break if you ask ahead of time, and provided you smoke outside the vehicle.
When planning your trip:
- Tell the company you’ll need smoke breaks
- Plan extra time for stops
- Ask about good stopping points along your route
Choose the Right Limo Service
Some companies are more flexible than others. When booking:
- Ask about their smoking policy
- Find out if they allow smoke breaks
- See if they have outdoor-friendly vehicles (like convertibles)
Plan Your Route
Pick a route with good stopping points:
- Restaurants with outdoor patios
- Parks or rest areas
- Event venues with smoking areas
- Hotels with designated smoking zones
Use Alternatives
Consider these options:
- Nicotine gum or patches
- E-cigarettes (check company policy first)
- Take breaks between destinations
- Smoke before getting in the limo
Special Situations and Exceptions
Private Limo Ownership
If you own your own limo, you can usually smoke in it. However:
- It will damage the vehicle’s value
- Future passengers might complain
- Professional drivers might refuse to work
- Insurance might not cover smoke damage
Certain Types of Events
Some limo companies make exceptions for:
- Bachelor/bachelorette parties – But they’ll charge extra
- Long-distance trips – With planned smoke breaks
- Cigar bar tours – Special vehicles designed for smoking
Always ask the company about their specific policies for your event type.
Different Vehicle Types
Rules might vary by vehicle:
- Stretch limos – Almost always no smoking
- Party buses – Usually no smoking, but some exceptions
- Luxury sedans – Typically no smoking
- Convertibles – Some companies allow smoking with top down
Tips for a Smoke-Free Limo Experience
Before You Book
- Read the contract carefully – Look for smoking rules and fees
- Ask about breaks – Plan stops if you need to smoke
- Check reviews – See what other customers say about policies
- Compare companies – Some are more flexible than others
During Your Ride
- Respect the rules – Don’t try to sneak a smoke
- Ask politely for stops – Most drivers will accommodate you
- Stay hydrated – It can help with cravings
- Enjoy the experience – Focus on your special event
After Your Ride
- Check your credit card – Make sure you weren’t charged extra fees
- Leave a review – Help other customers know what to expect
- Book again – Good companies will remember respectful customers
The Future of Smoking in Limos
Trends in the Industry
The limo industry is moving toward stricter no-smoking policies. More companies are:
- Adding smoke detection systems
- Increasing penalties for smoking
- Offering more smoke break options
- Using better cleaning technology
Legal Changes
Some states have recently enacted legislation restricting smoking in personal vehicles, and this trend may continue. We might see:
- More states banning smoking in hired vehicles
- Stricter penalties for violations
- Better protection for non-smoking passengers
Technology Solutions
New technology is helping companies manage smoking issues:
- Smoke detectors that alert drivers immediately
- Air purification systems that work faster
- Better cleaning methods that remove odors completely
- Apps that help plan smoke-friendly routes
How Skyline Chicago Limo Handles Smoking
At Skyline Chicago Limo, we understand that some of our clients may need to smoke during their journey. While we maintain a strict no-smoking policy inside all our vehicles, we’re happy to work with you to plan appropriate smoke breaks.
Our professional chauffeurs can stop at safe, comfortable locations where you can step outside for a quick smoke break. We serve the entire Chicago area, including O’Hare Airport and Midway Airport, and know the best spots for brief stops.
Whether you’re booking for a wedding, corporate event, or special occasion, just let us know your needs when you book, and we’ll plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is simple: you cannot smoke in most limousines today. The combination of health concerns, damage costs, and customer complaints has led nearly all companies to ban smoking completely.
If you need to smoke during your limo ride, your best option is to plan ahead. Ask about smoke breaks when you book, and work with your driver to find good stopping points. Most limo companies, including Skyline Chicago Limo, are happy to accommodate reasonable requests for smoke breaks.
Remember that breaking the no-smoking rule can cost you hundreds of dollars in cleaning fees, plus you might lose your service entirely. It’s much better to plan ahead and enjoy your luxury ride without the stress of rule-breaking.Whether you’re planning a night on the town, an airport transfer, or any other special event, focus on the experience and let your professional chauffeur handle the details – including finding the perfect spots for smoke breaks when you need them.
