Where can you smoke a shisha?

The shisha is a water pipe originating in the Middle East. In France it has become popular chiefly among teenagers, but also among adults looking for a sociable setting in which to spend time as a group. It is not, however, possible to smoke a hookah just anywhere in the country.

Smoking shisha in public places

No law has been passed specifically on smoking shisha in a public place. Since this is tobacco use in a public place, however, the decree of 15 November 2006 has applied since 1 February 2007. Under it, smoking tobacco in premises used collectively is prohibited.

This covers enclosed and covered places open to the public (shopping centres, concert halls, cinemas and so on), healthcare establishments, public transport, schools and other facilities receiving minors.

Since 1 July 2015, smoking has also been prohibited on or near children's play areas, in other words in parks (even in the open air), playgrounds and public gardens.

Smoking shisha in a specialist venue

If you want to smoke a shisha outside a private home, affordable shisha bars are open to customers. These specialist venues offer an eastern setting, in their decoration as much as in the food served alongside. The surroundings recall those of a café, where drinks with or without alcohol are served in addition to the traditional mint teas and fermented milks.

One caveat: French regulations prohibit tobacco use in public establishments. Some bars are therefore operating illegally.

Smoking shisha at home

This is the most common option. Many shisha users have theirs at home, alone or with friends. Using a hookah outside the four walls of your own home is tightly restricted. The only way to use the equipment discreetly and without disturbing others is therefore to do so at home. Take care all the same not to bother the neighbours, and not to smoke in communal areas if you live in a block of flats.