Questions and Answers

Please see the Tobacco-Free Campus Policy for detailed information.

Are there any smoking-approved areas on campus?

No. Tobacco products are prohibited in all areas of the campus.

Can I smoke in my car?

Yes, provided that the windows and doors of your personal vehicle are closed and your tobacco waste products are stored in the vehicle and disposed of at off-campus locations.

I am trying to quit with the use of electronic cigarettes. Can I smoke my electronic cigarette on campus?

Congratulations on trying to quit, but no, the use of electronic cigarettes of any kind is prohibited.

The College has events that are open to the public. Can our guests smoke?

If the event is held on the College of Charleston campus, smoking or any use of tobacco products is not allowed.

Are there any exceptions?

The President of the College (or the President's designee), may permit limited exceptions to the policy. Other than those exceptions expressly permitted by the President or his designee, no. The policy is inclusive of the entire campus community and members of the general public.

Is the use of tobacco (or vaping) alllowed on campus sidewalks? 

The College's tobacco-free policy covers all areas of campus, including the bricked sidewalks. If a sidewalk is not made of bricks, then it is City of Charleston property and smoking or the use of vaping products is permitted. The College's tobacco-free map clearly indicates which sidewalks are covered under the policy and which aren't.

What should I do if I see someone smoking?

Politely introduce yourself and state your role at the College. Ask the person (or persons) if they are aware that the use of tobacco products of any kind is not allowed on campus. And tell them to please be so kind as to extinguish or stop using the device. Afterwards, it's always a good idea to thank these individuals for their willingness to help keep the College of Charleston tobacco-free. 

So what if they don't stop smoking after I politely explain the policy?

If you feel uncomfortable with explaining the policy, or if the person refuses to stop their use of the tobacco product, you can contact Public Safety.