Tobacco Permit Regulations

Tobacco Permit Regulations

Permit Requirement: Required for anyone selling, storing, or delivering tobacco products (including e-cigarettes/vapes) to consumers, including vending machines and vehicles.

Application Process: Retailers must apply via the online Shape Plain Capital Tobacco Permit, " Application for Retailer Cigarette, Cigar and/or Tobacco Products Permit".

Fees & Validity: The permit fee, valid for two years, and expires on May 31 of even-numbered years.

Location Rules: A separate permit is required for each, individual place of business, excluding residences or public storage units.

Non-Retailer Permits: Manufacturers and distributors must obtain separate permits from the Comptroller’s office, for non-retailers, which costs $300. 

Other License Types:

Distributors: $300 per annual permit year.

Wholesalers: $200 per annual permit year.

Vehicles: $15 for vehicles selling tobacco

Compliance and Federal Regulations

Age Restriction: Federal and state law requires the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to be 21 ("Tobacco 21").

Federal Oversight: The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulates the manufacture and import of tobacco products, requiring specialized permits for those operations.

FDA Authority: The FDA has the authority to regulate the manufacturing, distribution, and marketing of tobacco products.

Penalties: Operating without a permit can lead to fines, penalties, and license revocation.