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

1. Placement Restrictions for Vending Machines

Per Connecticut law:

“No person shall sell… an electronic nicotine delivery system or vapor product by means of a self-service display or a vending machine in any establishment where persons under twenty-one years of age are permitted.”
– Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-344b(c)

The only legal placements are:

• Establishments where entry is restricted to individuals 21 years of age or older, such as:
  • Licensed cigar bars under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 19a-342a
  • Age-restricted tobacco specialty stores
• The machine must be under direct supervision of the owner or employee and inaccessible when the business is closed

2. Licensing & Permitting Requirements

Retailer License for ENDS and Vapor Products

“Each person engaged in the business of selling electronic nicotine delivery systems or vapor products at retail shall obtain a dealer’s license from the Department of Revenue Services.”
– Conn. Gen. Stat. § 21a-415(a)

• A separate license is required for each location.
• Licenses must be renewed annually.
• Applications are made to the Department of Revenue Services (DRS).
• DRS may suspend or revoke licenses for violations of age-sale, tax, or signage requirements.

3. Excise Taxes & Sales Tax

Closed-System Products (Pods, Cartridges)

“An excise tax is imposed on closed system electronic nicotine delivery systems at the rate of $0.40 per milliliter of e-liquid.”
– Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-330s(a)(1)

Open-System Products (Refillables, Bottles)

“An excise tax is imposed on all other electronic nicotine delivery systems at 10% of the wholesale price.”
– Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12-330s(a)(2)

Additionally:

• Standard sales tax (6.35%) applies to retail sales.
• Taxes must be remitted to DRS monthly by the licensed retailer or distributor.

4. Required Signage at Point of Sale

“Any person who sells vapor products shall post a sign stating:
‘The sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems or vapor products to persons under 21 is prohibited by law.’”
– Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-344b(d)

The sign must be:

• Conspicuously posted at the point of sale or vending machine
• Clearly visible and legible

5. Local / Municipal Ordinances

Several municipalities in Connecticut have enacted additional rules. For example:

• Hartford and Bridgeport have adopted flavored vape bans.
• New Haven and others may require zoning approvals for vending machine placement.

These vary by city; operators must verify with:

• Local health departments
• Zoning boards of appeals or planning commissions

6. Enforcement & Penalties

Violations of Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-344b and § 21a-415 may result in:

• Fines of up to $300 per incident for underage sales
• License suspension or revocation
• Seizure of product if untaxed or improperly sold

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