Olmsted County, MN Business Licensing & Operations: Tobacco Retail License (2026)
Key Facts
- License term
- 12 months from date of issuance
- Renewal window
- 30 to 60 days before expiration
- 1st sale-to-minor fine
- $300 within 36 months
- 4th+ sale-to-minor penalty
- $1,000 fine plus 30-day suspension
- Mall kiosks
- not eligible; fixed location only
- Minimum age to hold license
- 21 years old
Summary
Any retail establishment in Olmsted County that sells tobacco, e-cigarettes, vape products or related devices must first get a county retail license under Chapter 2200. Applicants apply on a county form, pay a base fee plus a per-register and per-vending-machine fee, and no license may issue to anyone under 21 or with a disqualifying criminal record.
An application for a license to sell licensed products shall be made on a form provided by the County. The application shall contain the full name of the applicant, the applicant's residential and business addresses, telephone numbers, the name of the business for which the license is sought, and any additional information the County deems necessary.
Full Breakdown
Section 2204 makes it unlawful for a retail establishment to sell or offer to sell any licensed product, tobacco-related device, electronic delivery device (e-cigarettes, vape pens, mods, tank systems) or nicotine/lobelia delivery product without a county license. 01, the application goes on a County-provided form and must list the applicant's full name, residential and business addresses, telephone numbers, the business name, and any additional information the County requires. 02). 04). 07). 08). Section 2205 sets a base fee per retail establishment, a fee per point-of-sale register, and a fee per licensed-product vending machine, all set by County Board resolution, with unpaid administrative fees added to the renewal bill. 01 bars issuance or renewal to anyone under 21 or convicted of a disqualifying federal or state criminal violation. 06).
Violations & Fines
Section 2212.01 sets a presumptive administrative penalty table for a licensee who sells to someone under 21: $300 for a first violation within 36 months, $600 for a second, $1,000 plus a 7-day license suspension for a third, and $1,000 plus a 30-day suspension for a fourth or later violation. If the state penalty under Minn. Stat. § 461.12 is higher, the higher figure controls. Notice of the violation and hearing rights go to the licensee before any penalty, suspension or revocation takes effect, and a hearing officer under Chapter 4000 can adjust the amount for the specific facts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a county license to sell vapes in Olmsted County?
How long does an Olmsted County tobacco and vape retail license last?
Can I sell vapes from a mall kiosk in Olmsted County?
What is the penalty for selling tobacco or vapes to a minor in Olmsted County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Olmsted County
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