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.
Questions? Call us at +1 888-537-8273