Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson is one of the largest hub airports in the world, and like nearly every major US airport it bans smoking and vaping inside the terminals, concourses, jet bridges, restrooms and gate areas. That doesn't mean smokers are out of luck — there are designated outdoor smoking areas at every terminal, and a small number of indoor cigar lounges nearby. This guide covers exactly where they are, the security re-entry implications, and the rules for vapes and e-cigarettes.
Designated outdoor smoking areas at ATL
All ATL smoking areas are located outside on the curb-side or transportation level. You must exit the secure area to use them, which means re-clearing TSA on the way back. Plan for at least 45 minutes round-trip during peak hours.
- Domestic Terminal North — outside baggage claim, far north end of the upper-level curb.
- Domestic Terminal South — outside baggage claim, far south end of the upper-level curb.
- International Terminal (Maynard H. Jackson Jr.) — outside arrivals, designated zones at both ends of the curb.
- Ground Transportation Center — small smoking areas near the West curb shuttle pickup.
Can you vape inside Atlanta Airport?
No. Vaping, e-cigarettes and heated-tobacco devices (IQOS, Glo) are treated identically to traditional cigarettes under ATL airport rules and Atlanta city ordinance. Using them anywhere inside the terminal — including restrooms, gate areas and the Plane Train — can result in a fine of up to $200 and possible removal from your flight.
You can carry vape devices in your carry-on (lithium batteries are not allowed in checked bags per FAA rules), but you cannot charge or use them airside. The same outdoor smoking areas listed above are the only legal vaping zones at ATL.
Cigar lounges and indoor smoking near ATL
There are no indoor smoking lounges inside the secure area at ATL. The nearest cigar lounges are located in the College Park, East Point and Hapeville neighborhoods 5–10 minutes from the airport — accessible by Uber or rental car. If you have a long enough layover (4+ hours), it is feasible to leave the airport for a proper cigar lounge experience and return through TSA, but factor in the 45–90 minute round-trip plus security wait times.
Re-entering security after a smoke break
If you go outside to smoke, you will need to re-clear TSA before returning to your gate. Here's how to minimize the delay:
- Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR if you have it — re-entry is usually under 10 minutes.
- Check the live TSA wait times on the FlyATL app before exiting.
- Smoke at the closest exit to your terminal (North vs. South Domestic) to save walking time.
- Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible — you'll need them again at the checkpoint.
Cannabis and marijuana at Atlanta Airport
Marijuana — including medical cannabis from other states — is illegal under Georgia state law and federal law, which governs all US airports. ATL Police actively enforce this, and possession can result in arrest, missed flights and federal charges. Do not bring cannabis products (including edibles, vapes or CBD with THC above 0.3%) into the airport, even if you are connecting from a legal state.
Smoking tips for international travelers at ATL
If you are connecting through ATL on an international itinerary, smoking outside requires you to formally re-enter the US through Customs and Border Protection, then re-clear TSA. This is generally not feasible on a connection under 3 hours. Heavy smokers should:
- Choose connections of 4+ hours when smoking is essential.
- Consider nicotine gum, lozenges or patches — sold at all ATL Hudson News stores.
- Use airline lounges with outdoor terraces (currently none at ATL — Delta Sky Club is fully indoor).
- Switch to a non-stop flight when possible to avoid the issue entirely.