Vape Vending Machines Sales Laws and Regulations in District of Columbia
Thinking of Launching a Vape Vending Machine in District of Columbia?
Here’s What You Need to Know First
Considering becoming a vape vending machine host in District of Columbia? 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 District of Columbia.
1. Placement Restrictions – Vape Vending Machines Prohibited
Statute:
“No person shall sell or distribute any tobacco product, electronic smoking device, or vapor product through a vending machine.”
Citation: D.C. Code § 7–1721.06(b)
🔹 Result: Vape and nicotine vending machines are categorically banned in all locations — including adult-only venues, bars, clubs, etc.
2. Licensing and Permits
Required License:
- License Name: Other Tobacco Products Retail License
- Issued by: DC Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR)
- Fee: $25 per location (as of latest data; check with OTR to confirm)
Apply Online:
-
DC MyTax Portal for Business Registration and Licensing
- Select "Register a New Business" or “Apply for a Tobacco License”
Supporting Law:
“No person shall engage in the business of selling or possessing with intent to sell tobacco products... without first having obtained a license.”
Citation: D.C. Code § 47–2404
Forms:
-
FR-500: Combined Business Tax Registration (includes sales tax + excise tax)
Form FR-500 PDF Download -
Tobacco License Application Help Page:
DC OTR Tobacco Licensing Info
3. Taxes & Fees
Excise Tax:
- Rate: 91% of wholesale price
- Applies to: Any vapor product, regardless of nicotine strength or form
Citation:
“A tax is imposed… at the rate of 91% of the wholesale sales price of other tobacco products, including vapor products.”
D.C. Code § 47–2402(a)(1)(B)
Sales Tax:
- Rate: 6% (standard retail sales tax applies in addition to excise)
4. Regulatory Bodies
Primary Agencies:
| Function | Agency Name | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing, Excise Tax | DC Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) | (202) 727-4829 https://otr.cfo.dc.gov |
| General Business Licensing |
DC Department of Licensing & Consumer Protection (DLCP) (formerly DCRA) |
(202) 442-4400 https://dlcp.dc.gov |
| Health Compliance, Youth Sales | DC Department of Health (DOH) | (202) 442-5955 https://dchealth.dc.gov |
5. Flavored Vape Ban
- All flavored e-cigarette and vapor products are banned.
- Ban includes: Mint, menthol, fruit, candy, dessert, alcohol-flavored vapes.
Citation:
“No person shall sell or offer for sale… any flavored tobacco product.”
D.C. Act 24-610 (Flavored Tobacco Product Prohibition Amendment Act of 2022)
6. Minimum Age Laws
- Sales restricted to persons 21 years or older.
- Requires government-issued photo ID for anyone appearing under 30.
Citation:
“No person shall sell, give, or furnish any tobacco product, including vapor products… to any person under 21 years of age.”
D.C. Code § 7–1721.02(a)
Disclaimer: This page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult official District of Columbia government resources for the most current regulations.
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