Yes, Charleston International Airport (CHS) has designated smoking areas at curbside on the lower level near baggage claim. The terminal building is smoke-free indoors, so you will step outside to the marked outdoor zones.

Smoking Policy at Charleston Airport

Designated outdoor smoking zones are located at curbside on the lower level near baggage claim. These areas are marked with signage and ashtrays. The Lowcountry climate means stepping outside is comfortable for most of the year, though summer humidity can be intense.

How Charleston Airport Is Laid Out

CHS has a single terminal with two concourses: A and B. The terminal went through a significant expansion and renovation, so the facilities are modern and well-maintained. The upper level handles departures and ticketing, while the lower level covers arrivals and baggage claim. The concourses extend from a central post-security area, and the overall footprint is compact enough that walking from the farthest gate to the terminal exit takes about 10 minutes.

Concourse A

Smoking zones: No smoking inside Concourse A. Once past TSA security, there is no place to smoke until you leave the building entirely. The designated outdoor zones are down on the lower level at curbside.

After security: No smoking areas available.

Concourse B

Smoking zones: Same as Concourse A — no indoor smoking. You must exit security and head outside to the lower-level curbside areas to smoke.

After security: No smoking areas available.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping

CHS applies its smoke-free policy to vaping and e-cigarettes as well. All electronic nicotine delivery devices must be used in the outdoor designated smoking areas only.

Summary

AreaSmoking AllowedLocation Details
Inside terminalNoAirport policy — full indoor ban
Concourse ANoNo post-security smoking
Concourse BNoNo post-security smoking
Outside – lower levelYesDesignated curbside areas near baggage claim
Vaping/e-cigarettesOutdoor onlySame rules as traditional cigarettes

For USA airport smoking rules, state vape rules, lighter rules at TSA, and other federal/state info, see our USA smoking guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I smoke inside Charleston International Airport (CHS)?

Yes, you can smoke at Charleston Airport in the designated outdoor zones at curbside on the lower level near baggage claim. The terminal itself is smoke-free, so step outside to the marked areas.

Where are the smoking zones at Charleston Airport (CHS)?

Designated smoking zones are located outside the terminal at curbside areas on the lower level near baggage claim. Look for ashtrays and signage near the terminal exits.

Is there a smoking area after security at CHS?

The designated smoking zones are outside at curbside on the lower level near baggage claim. To smoke after passing through TSA, exit the secure area, head outside to the marked zones, then re-clear screening to return to your gate.

Can I vape at Charleston Airport (CHS)?

Vaping and e-cigarettes are treated the same as traditional cigarettes inside CHS. The airport’s indoor smoke-free policy covers all nicotine products. Use the outdoor designated areas.