Vape Vending Machines Sales Laws and Regulations in Alabama
Thinking of Launching a Vape Vending Machine in Alabama?
Disclaimer: This page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult official Alabama government resources for the most current regulations.
To operate vape vending machines in Alabama:
- You can only place them in 21+ establishments.
- Machines cannot mix vape/nicotine products with non-nicotine items (except matches).
- Act 2025-403, enacted by the Legislature and signed by Governor Kay Ivey, creates two retail permits: the ABC Tobacco Permit and the ABC Specialty Retailer of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Permit. The ABC Tobacco Permit, priced at $150 annually, authorizes sales of traditional tobacco products and certain electronic nicotine delivery systems that are FDA-approved or under FDA review
Considering becoming a vape vending machine host in Alabama? Familiarize yourself with the current state laws to ensure compliance and successful operations. Here's a quick breakdown of current state regulations for vapor products, vape machines, and sales.
Whether you're a retailer, entrepreneur, or operator, understanding these regulations is essential not only for compliance but also for safeguarding your investment. Below is a detailed guide that breaks down the current rules, requirements, and best practices for operating a vape vending machine in Alabama.
1. Placement Restrictions
Section 28-11-6.1 - Vending Machines.
Universal Citation: AL Code § 28-11-6.1 (2024) Title 28 - Intoxicating Liquor, Malt Beverages and Wine. Chapter 11 - Sale of Tobacco Products Regulated by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
(a) No tobacco, tobacco product, alternative nicotine product, or electronic nicotine delivery system shall be distributed by use of a vending machine unless the machine:
(1) Is located in an area in which individuals under the age of 21 years are not permitted access; or
(2) Dispenses tobacco, tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, or electronic nicotine delivery systems through the operation of a device that requires the tobacco permit holder or an employee of the permit holder to control the distribution of the product.
(b) No tobacco, tobacco product, alternative nicotine product, or electronic nicotine delivery system shall be distributed at retail by use of a vending machine if placed together with any non-tobacco product or non-nicotine product, other than matches, in the machine.
2. Licensing & Permitting Requirements
Legal Authority: Ala. Code § 28-11-7
“Any person who maintains an electronic nicotine delivery system vending machine on his premises must first obtain a permit from the Board of Health for each machine at such location.” § 28-11-7(b)
“The permit is valid only for the location specified in the permit application.” § 28-11-7(c)
“The permit is not transferable or assignable and must be renewed annually.” § 28-11-7(d)
“The Board of Health is authorized to adopt procedures for the issuance and renewal of permits which combine tobacco permit procedures with procedures for licensing the sale of alcoholic beverages.” § 28-11-7(e)
Summary:
- One permit per machine per location
- Annual renewal required
- Not transferable
- Apply through the Alabama Board of Health
3. Taxes, Revenue Stamps & Fees
Legal Authority: Ala. Code § 40-12-176 and § 40-25-2
“Anyone operating a vending machine in Alabama must pay an annual privilege license based on the total sales during the preceding year.”
“No separate county license is required.”
“The name and address of the vending machine license owner must be conspicuously posted on each vending machine.”
“Each vending machine vending tobacco products...shall have a transparent front window, through which the Alabama revenue stamps...may be seen without the necessity of opening or unlocking the vending machine.” § 40-12-176
Alabama ABC Resources for Vape and Tobacco Vending
ABC Compliance Website:
ABC Permit Process Guide
Disclaimer: This page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult official Alabama government resources for the most current regulations.
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