East Orange, NJ Business Licensing & Operations: Tobacco Retail License (2026)

Chapter 280 requires any business engaged in an enumerated activity, including the sale of tobacco, to obtain a mercantile permit from the East Orange Department of Health before operating, under Sections 280-3 and 280-4. A retailer must first hold a certificate of occupancy under Section 280-5, then file an application with a $250 fee under Section 280-9; the Department of Health has 30 days to investigate whether the business is likely to spread communicable disease or create a nuisance, and if no report or decision issues within 40 days the permit is deemed approved under Section 280-7.

Permits run one year from issuance and must be reissued if the business relocates, per Sections 280-10 and 280-12, and are tied to compliance with the City's separate zoning and land use ordinance in Chapter 51 under Section 280-11. The Mayor and governing body may revoke a permit for violating any local, state or federal law after notice and a hearing where the holder can present evidence and cross-examine witnesses, under Section 280-14, and permits must be posted conspicuously at the place of business under Section 280-15.

Inspectors must be allowed to enter and inspect the premises, and denial follows if access is refused, under Section 280-13. The Department of Health enforces this chapter under Section 280-16.