The survey, which questioned 1,000 adults, found that popular spots for rule-breaking include train stations, playgrounds, and parks.
A surprising 17 per cent confessed to puffing away in shopping centres, while another 11 per cent admitted to smoking or vaping on buses or in gyms.
Vapers were found to be slightly more rebellious than smokers, with 37 per cent of vapers compared to 31 per cent of cigarette smokers confessing to lighting up where they shouldn’t.
The research was commissioned by nicotine pouch retailer Two Wombats. Despite 57 per cent admitting they feel a pang of guilt, they also confessed they couldn’t resist.
A spokesperson for Two Wombats said: “Many still struggle to break old habits,” but emphasised: “It’s not just about rules-it’s about respecting the health and comfort of others.
“Lighting up where you shouldn’t put more than just your wallet at risk through fines; it impacts everyone around you.”
According to the survey, of those who smoke or vape in restricted spaces, 24 per cent do it a few times a week if not every day.
So what’s the reason behind this sneaky behaviour? It turns out 70 per cent will light up if they can’t find a designated zone. Additionally, 58 per cent claim they decided to smoke or vape in a restricted area after seeing someone else do it first.
A staggering 75 per cent are confident they won’t get caught with a mischievous 23 per cent feeling a buzz from doing so.
It also emerged Yorkshire smokers were most likely to break the rules with 33 per cent admitting to lighting up in restricted areas a few times per year.
Northern Ireland appears to harbour the most conflicted nicotine users, with 70 per cent feeling guilty about smoking where they shouldn’t but being unable to help themselves.
There was also a notably higher rate of workplace smoking in Wales, where 34 per cent admitted to breaking the rules – significantly higher than the West Midlands’ 23 per cent.
Two Wombats’ spokesperson added: “We’re living in a time where there are better, smarter options. The fact that people are still risking fines and social disapproval shows how strong nicotine cravings can be.
“Other options, such as nicotine pouches, can offer a discreet, smoke free, legal and a hassle-free way to manage the cravings without the consequences.”