Vape Vending Machines Sales Laws and Regulations in Kentucky

Thinking of Launching a Vape Vending Machine in Kentucky?
Here’s What You Need to Know First

Considering becoming a vape vending machine host in Kentucky? 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.VapeTMWhether 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 Kentucky.

LOUISVILLE METRO / JEFFERSON COUNTY SPECIFICS

1. Local Retail Licensing

While the Commonwealth of Kentucky does not require a retail license for vapor product sales outside of vending operations, Louisville Metro Government and Jefferson County have implemented their own local requirements for tobacco and vapor product retailers.

  • A Tobacco and Nicotine Product Retail License is required within Louisville Metro.
  • This includes vape products, nicotine pouches, and alternative nicotine items.
  • Businesses operating vending machines for these products within Louisville must also comply.

This local requirement originates from Louisville Metro Ordinance No. O-424-21, codified under LMCO § 90.15 et seq., which mandates:

“Any person, partnership, or corporation selling tobacco products, including vapor products, shall apply for a retail license annually. This includes sales through vending machines.”

Contact for licensing:
Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness
Environmental Health Tobacco Retail Licensing Division
Phone: (502) 574-6650
Website: https://louisvilleky.gov

LICENSING SUMMARY FOR KENTUCKY (STATE + LOCAL)

Jurisdiction Type of License Applies To Required For Vending?
State (KY) Vending Machine Operator License Vending machine operators of vape products ✅ Yes
State (KY) None Retail vape/nicotine pouch sales (except vending) ❌ Not required statewide
Louisville Metro / Jefferson County Tobacco/Nicotine Retail License Any retail sale including vending ✅ Required locally

PLACEMENT RESTRICTIONS RECAP

Kentucky requires that any vape vending machine be:

  • In line-of-sight of the cashier, unless:
    • Located in a bar or tavern where minors are not permitted
    • Located in a factory setting
      Ky. Rev. Stat. § 438.315.

Additional local rules (e.g., spacing from schools, warning signage) may apply within Louisville, and these must be confirmed directly with Louisville Metro Public Health.

TAXATION: EXCISE + SALES

Excise Tax (State Level):

Product Type Tax Amount
Closed cartridges $1.50 per cartridge
Open systems 15% of actual distributor price

Statutory basis: Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 138.140(2)(a)(4–5).

Sales Tax:

  • Kentucky applies standard state sales tax (6%) on vapor products unless exempted by special designation.
  • Vending machine sales are considered retail sales and must be reported and remitted accordingly via the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

STATE & LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO CONTACT

Agency Jurisdiction Area of Oversight Contact
KY Dept. of Revenue Statewide Vending machine operator licensing,
excise tax		 https://revenue.ky.gov
Louisville Metro Dept. of Public Health & Wellness Local Tobacco/vape retail licensing,
compliance inspections		 https://louisvilleky.gov

COMPLIANCE TIPS

  • Maintain visible tax stamps on all products sold through vending machines.
  • Ensure age-verification signage is present at all retail or vending locations.
  • Maintain updated licensing and notify regulators of any change of location.
  • Local Louisville license renewals are annual, and failure to renew may result in penalties or license revocation.

Disclaimer: This page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult official Kentucky government resources for the most current regulations.

 

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