Is a Pergola Suitable as a Designated Smoking Area in a Commercial Setting?
Got smokers but no shelter? A pergola might just save your beer garden—and your nerves. Short answer: yes, a pergola (especially an aluminium pergola) can be a legal smoking area—if you follow the rules. Keep reading to learn the tricks, tips, and how not to get fined.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Local smoking ordinances and regulations
UK law isn’t fond of enclosed smoking areas. Under the Health Act 2006, you can’t allow smoking in a space that’s enclosed or even "substantially enclosed". That means roofs with four solid walls are a no-go.
But here’s where a pergola gets clever. As long as at least 50% of the wall space remains open, it counts as a legal smoking shelter. Think of it like a fancy carport for smokers—lots of air, minimal restrictions.
For example, one Birmingham café installed a sleek aluminium pergola with two open sides and pull-down screens that only get used when the area is not in smoking use. That way, they stay legal without sacrificing comfort.
Fire safety regulations
Cigarettes and timber don’t exactly mix. If you’re going with a wooden pergola, you’ll need to think about flame resistance. A better choice? An aluminium pergola. It’s non-combustible, tough in bad weather, and won’t require constant treating or fire-retardant coatings.
You’ll also want:
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Heavy-duty ashtrays or bins with sand
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Fire extinguishers nearby
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Clear staff instructions on dealing with cigarette-related risks
Remember, a stray spark near a dried plant pot can cause more than just drama—it can lead to damage and liability.
Accessibility requirements
Don’t forget about inclusivity. The Equality Act 2010 requires you to ensure disabled patrons have fair access. Your pergola smoking area should include:
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A step-free path (gravel and smokers don’t mix)
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Wide access for wheelchairs
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Clearly visible signage
If someone in a wheelchair can’t use the space, you’re not compliant—and possibly turning away customers without even knowing it.
Health and safety considerations
From slippery floors to wayward smoke, pergola smoking areas need a bit of planning. Make it part of your venue's safety checklist:
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Use anti-slip flooring (decking or textured stone works well)
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Ensure good lighting
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Provide distance from food areas to avoid passive smoke complaints
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Regularly clean and inspect the space
Treat it like a mini extension of your premises, not just a throwaway corner for nicotine breaks.
Practical Considerations
Ventilation and air quality
This is where pergolas shine. Their open-sided structure means smoke doesn’t linger or build up. Aluminium pergolas with adjustable louvres allow you to control airflow and light while keeping the atmosphere breathable.
Avoid heavy curtains or side panels that trap smoke—they’ll turn your shelter into a giant ashtray. Instead, keep it breezy and open.
Drainage and waste disposal
It rains. A lot. Your smoking shelter should have proper drainage, especially if it’s set on decking or paving. Pooled water is more than unpleasant—it’s a slip hazard.
And don’t overlook rubbish:
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Install weatherproof ash bins
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Make waste bins easy to spot and empty
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Schedule frequent clean-ups to stop the space looking grimy
A well-maintained pergola shows customers you care—even about the smoky corners.
Furniture and furnishings
The vibe matters. Go for hard-wearing, non-flammable furniture that doesn’t absorb smoke or mildew. Aluminium benches or bistro-style chairs work perfectly and tie in with the pergola design.
Avoid plush cushions and upholstered seating unless they're designed for outdoor use and easy cleaning. Your furniture should handle both a cigarette ember and a British downpour.
Aesthetics and ambiance
Just because it's a smoking zone doesn't mean it has to look grim. Use subtle lighting, like fairy lights or weatherproof sconces, to give the space a warm, welcoming feel.
A few hanging planters or potted herbs can add a pleasant touch, and if your venue has a theme, let that shine through here too. One Yorkshire pub themed their pergola smoking area with vintage beer signs and barrels for seating—and it's now the most Instagrammed spot on site.
Alternatives to Smoking Pergolas
Designated smoking rooms
Still hoping to put your smokers indoors? Think again. Unless you’re a private club or prison, indoor smoking rooms aren’t legal in the UK.
They’re also a nightmare for air quality, maintenance, and brand image. Unless you want to turn your cellar into a foggy throwback to the '90s, stick to outdoor options.
Outdoor smoking shelters
The classic metal-roof, glass-sided shelter is still widely used. It’s functional and legal—but not always pretty.
Compared to pergolas, these shelters can feel cold or clinical. If your brand leans modern, rustic, or boutique, pergolas offer a more stylish, welcoming alternative without losing the practical bits.
Smoking cessation programs
Let’s not forget the long game. Supporting smokers to quit benefits your staff, your guests, and your air quality. Display leaflets or offer e-cigarette friendly zones.
Some venues even partner with local NHS initiatives or provide incentives for employees working to quit. It’s not about banning smoking—it’s about offering balanced options.
Final Thoughts
So, is a pergola suitable for a designated smoking area? Absolutely. With the right design, clear compliance, and a bit of style, it can become a standout feature rather than an awkward add-on.
An aluminium pergola offers durability, fire safety, and weather resistance—and with thoughtful planning, it can turn a smoker’s retreat into something your whole venue can be proud of.
Ready to plan your own pergola smoking area? We can connect you with designers and installers who understand both the law and your brand vibe. Let’s build something better—smoke and all.
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