Is Smoking Allowed at the Driving Range?
When it comes to the question, “Is smoking allowed at the driving range?”—the answer is not always straightforward. Policies on smoking, whether it's traditional cigarettes or cigars, vary from one driving range to another. While some facilities may allow smoking in designated outdoor areas, others strictly prohibit it altogether. This variation is due to a combination of local laws, facility-specific rules, and increasing awareness of public health considerations.
For cigar lovers, hitting a few balls at the driving range with a fine cigar in hand might seem like the ultimate relaxing experience. However, it's essential to understand the rules, etiquette, and expectations that come with lighting up in a shared environment like a golf practice facility.
What Are the Driving Range Smoking Rules and Regulations?
Usually, the policies and guidelines for Golfer Cigars at a driving range ask for limiting smoking to specified smoking areas and not in locations where it could bother others. Often, this means smoking only in places away from structures or other fire risks, including the driving range itself, pro shop, or clubhouse, which are usually made of wood.
Local Laws Play a Key Role
One of the most significant factors influencing whether smoking is allowed at a driving range is local legislation. Many cities and states have restrictions on smoking in public places. These laws may include bans on smoking within a certain distance of building entrances, in outdoor public spaces, or even in recreational areas like parks and sports complexes. Since driving ranges are often considered public or semi-public venues, they are frequently subject to these same restrictions.
For instance, in regions with strict smoking ordinances, driving ranges might ban smoking entirely or restrict it to clearly marked smoking zones. In contrast, in areas with more relaxed laws, facilities might have more flexibility in setting their own policies.
Before lighting up, it's a smart move to check the local smoking regulations for the area where the driving range is located. Ignorance of the law isn’t typically accepted as an excuse if you’re found violating rules on public smoking.
Health, Comfort, and Courtesy: Why Driving Ranges Set Smoking Rules
Beyond the legal framework, most driving ranges create their smoking policies based on health concerns and customer experience. Second-hand smoke is a well-documented health risk. Many facilities aim to maintain a clean, family-friendly, and welcoming environment for all patrons, including children, non-smokers, and those with respiratory sensitivities.
A growing number of golf facilities—especially modern or upscale driving ranges—are now adopting smoke-free policies to:
Protect customers from exposure to second-hand smoke
Reduce the risk of fire, especially in dry or wooded areas
Enhance the comfort and overall enjoyment of all guests
Even facilities that do allow smoking often limit it to specific outdoor areas, far from high-traffic zones like the tee line, clubhouse, or pro shop.
Common Driving Range Smoking Rules and Regulations
So, what do smoking policies at most driving ranges look like?
Typically, these rules include the following guidelines:
Smoke only in designated areas: These are usually marked and located away from common gathering spots.
Avoid smoking near wooden structures or flammable materials: This includes the range tee area, wooden benches, or clubhouses.
Do not smoke in the pro shop, clubhouse, or restrooms: These indoor spaces are almost always smoke-free zones.
Dispose of cigarette butts properly: Littering, especially with lit cigarette ends, is a major fire and cleanliness concern.
Be considerate of others: If you're in a shared bay or a crowded range, avoid smoking where it could drift toward non-smokers.
Following these basic rules not only helps you stay within facility guidelines but also contributes to a safe, courteous, and pleasant environment for everyone using the space.
Can You Smoke Cigars While Hitting Balls?
The cigar culture has long been associated with golf, but does that extend to the driving range?
The answer again depends on the specific rules of the facility. Some driving ranges embrace cigar culture by offering cigar-friendly amenities or designated cigar smoking zones. These facilities may attract a clientele that appreciates a relaxed, upscale environment where enjoying a stogie is part of the experience.
However, many other driving ranges, especially those in urban or family-focused environments, may have zero-tolerance policies on cigar or cigarette use, even outdoors. The aroma and smoke from cigars are often much stronger than from cigarettes, making them more noticeable and potentially disruptive to other patrons.
Golfers who enjoy cigars should always:
Check the facility’s website or call ahead to ask about smoking policies
Respect boundaries, both physical and social, when smoking
Understand that some places may allow smoking during a round of golf but not during practice sessions at the range
Remember, cigar enjoyment and respect can coexist when guidelines are followed and the preferences of fellow golfers are considered.
Outdoor Etiquette for Smoking Golfers
Good etiquette is the foundation of the game of golf, and this extends to behavior at the driving range.
If you're a smoker, keep these etiquette tips in mind:
Always ask before smoking around others
Stand downwind to avoid blowing smoke toward non-smokers
Use an ashtray or sand bucket—never flick ashes on the grass or pavement
Don’t leave butts on the ground—this is a top complaint at many ranges and courses
These small courtesies go a long way in helping maintain a shared space that all golfers—smokers and non-smokers alike—can enjoy.
Respect, Responsibility, and Relaxation
Whether you're a casual smoker or a dedicated cigar aficionado, the key to smoking at the driving range is respect—for the rules, for the space, and most importantly, for your fellow golfers.
Golf is a game rooted in etiquette and tradition, and modern golf culture is evolving to meet the expectations of a more diverse and health-conscious audience. While some driving ranges still permit smoking in certain areas, many are moving toward smoke-free experiences.
Before you bring your cigar to your next practice session, take a moment to review the facility’s smoking policy. When in doubt, ask the staff or check signage. A respectful approach ensures that everyone—smokers and non-smokers alike—can enjoy their time on the range.
In the end, a well-chosen cigar, a thoughtful attitude, and a beautiful swing can all go hand-in-hand—provided you're in the right place at the right time.