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.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 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:

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:

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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