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

Chapter 302, Article III of the Howell Township Code licenses retail electronic smoking device establishments, which § 302-2 defines as any establishment that sells, distributes, gives, offers or manufactures electronic smoking devices, components or parts, electronic liquid, and liquid nicotine. Section 302-7 allows only licensed establishments to sell or manufacture those products. Businesses already selling when the article passed had to obtain a license within 60 days.

Section 302-11 sets the process. Applications are available from the Township Clerk. No license issues unless the applicant holds a valid CCO (certificate of continued occupancy) or other approval from the Township Department of Community Development. Fees are paid annually: $1,000 for the establishment license and $2,500 for a manufacturer license. The license year begins June 1 and ends May 31, and renewal applications are due no less than 60 days before expiration. At initial application and each renewal the applicant must disclose whether it is also a manufacturer or distributor and give contact information for the businesses it buys product from.

The license must be posted at eye level where patrons see it on entering, with no portion obstructed, and it is unlawful to erase, cancel, deface or alter it. Any Township official, inspector or police officer with identification can examine it. No license issues to itinerant establishments, meaning businesses run from a truck, cart or other vehicle or mobile unit. Licenses are not transferable and not prorated, so a change of ownership or tenancy requires a new application and a new license before opening. Under § 302-12 the fees fund enforcement and Township smoking prevention and control programs.