Considering becoming a vape vending machine host in Missouri? 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 Missouri.

1. Placement Restrictions

Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 407.931, vape and tobacco vending machines are subject to the following restrictions:

“All vending machines that dispense tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, or vapor products shall be located within the unobstructed line of sight and under the direct supervision of an adult responsible for preventing persons less than eighteen years of age from purchasing any tobacco product, alternative nicotine product, or vapor product from such machine or shall be equipped with a lock-out device to prevent the machines from being operated until the person responsible for monitoring sales from the machines disables the lock. Such locking device shall be of a design that prevents it from being left in an unlocked condition and which will allow only a single sale when activated. A locking device shall not be required on machines that are located in areas where persons less than eighteen years of age are not permitted or prohibited by law” (MO Rev Stat § 407.931 (2024)). 

Missouri does not currently have a state-level tobacco or vapor vending machine operator license requirement. However:

• Retailers selling vapor products must be registered to collect and remit Missouri sales tax (see below).
• Cities may have additional permitting requirements (see section 5).

3. Taxes & Fees

According to Missouri Department of Revenue

Sales Tax:

• All vape and nicotine pouch products are subject to standard state and local sales tax.
• A Missouri Sales Tax License is required to collect this.

Excise Tax:

• As of June 2025, Missouri does not impose a state excise tax on vapor or nicotine pouch products.

4. Regulatory Agencies

Key authorities involved in enforcement or licensing:

• Missouri Department of Revenue: Handles business registration and sales tax licensing.
  • https://dor.mo.gov/business/register/
• Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC): While it does not license vape vendors, it oversees some retail tobacco matters.

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