Smoking area at O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

O’Hare Airport (ORD) strictly enforces a no-smoking policy inside all terminal buildings, covering lounges, gate areas, dining spaces, and restrooms. The ban includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and all forms of vaping, in full alignment with Illinois state law and city ordinances.

Where Smoking Is Allowed – Outdoor Zones Only:

• If you need to smoke, you’ll need to do so outside the terminal buildings, pre-security, in designated curbside areas located on the departures and arrivals levels. These spots are clearly marked and positioned at least 15–25 feet from entrances and air intakes to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.
• Each terminal—1, 2, 3, and 5—has accessible outdoor smoking sections near the curb, typically close to ground transportation areas.

Ashtrays are provided to encourage responsible disposal.

Keep in Mind:

There are no indoor or post-security smoking lounges at ORD.

Once you exit to smoke, you’ll need to go through TSA screening again to return to your gate.

Violating smoking rules may result in fines or removal from airport property.

O’Hare encourages travelers to follow signage, respect designated smoking areas, and help maintain a clean, healthy travel experience for everyone passing through one of the world’s busiest airports.