Freedom of Information requests were submitted to UK councils to find out which local authority issued the highest number of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for smoking in a licensed taxi/ PHV
According to data collected by Alternix. which sells tobacco-free alternatives, the three councils that issues the most fines across all the authorities that responded between 6 April 2024 and 5 April 5 2025 were:
Liverpool City Council who issued the most with 103 FPNs
North Somerset Council was second with 66
Birmingham City Council was third with 48
Birmingham had the third highest amount of fines across all the authorities that responded. Data showed that, of the 48 fines issued:
Thirty-seven were paid within 15 days at a reduced rate of £30
Six were paid within 29 days costing the drivers £50
Two drivers were summoned to court for not paying
One case was withdrawn
One driver was issued with multiple fines in a single day and summoned to face a littering charge
Councils can set their own fines for smoking in a licensed vehicle, but it must fall within the limits of set legislation.
David Philips at Alternix said: "Second hand smoke is a known killer, contributing to people developing lung cancer.
"It is encouraging to see councils are taking action to enforce the law and ensure that members of the public can enjoy a smoke-free journey.
“Some smokers may find it difficult to quit and effectively manage their withdrawal symptoms.
"For drivers who are struggling to quit smoking, nicotine pouches can provide a discreet smoke-free method of nicotine delivery, to ensure they remain compliant with the law."
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