Fresno requires every tobacco and vape retailer to obtain an annual tobacco retail license, in addition to a state CDTFA license, with proximity restrictions near schools and youth-serving facilities under FMC Chapter 9.
Fresno Municipal Code Chapter 9 establishes a local tobacco retailer license administered by city code enforcement. Licenses are non-transferable, renew annually, and require posted age signage and ID checks for buyers under 30. State law AB 793 raised purchase age to 21. Retailers within 500 feet of K-12 schools, parks, or libraries face additional scrutiny. Suspension follows minor-sale citations, with escalating penalties for repeat violations. Vape and flavored product sales must comply with California SB 793 statewide flavor ban.
Selling tobacco without a city license, failing to post age signage, or selling to minors triggers fines, license suspension, and possible CDTFA referral.
See how Fresno's tobacco retail license rules stack up against other locations.
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