No. Vaping in a car with minors in Chile is prohibited under Law 21.389 (2021), enforced by the Servicio Nacional para la Prevención y Rehabilitación del Consumo de Drogas y Alcohol (SENDA). Violations carry fines up to 10 UTM (~$700 USD) and may trigger child protection interventions. The 2026 regulatory amendments expand penalties to include vehicle operators, not just drivers.
Key Regulations for Vaping in a Car with Kids in Chile
- Complete Ban: Law 21.389 explicitly prohibits vaping or smoking in enclosed vehicles when minors under 18 are present, regardless of window position. Enforcement applies to all occupants, including parents or guardians.
- Strict Liability: The driver is solely responsible for compliance, even if another passenger vapes. SENDA’s 2024 circulars clarify that “presence” includes transient exposure (e.g., passing through a vehicle).
- Penalties & Reporting: Fines scale with repeat offenses (up to 50 UTM for third violations). Police or SENDA inspectors may report violations to Juzgados de Familia for potential child welfare assessments under Law 21.433.