Richmond requires tobacco retailers to hold a city business license under Chapter 6 and comply with Virginia Code Section 18.2-371.2 establishing age 21 as the minimum purchase age. Local stings target underage sales near VCU campuses.
Tobacco and vape retailers operating in Richmond must obtain a city business license under Municipal Code Chapter 6, register with the Virginia Department of Taxation for tobacco stamping, and follow Virginia Code Section 18.2-371.2 prohibiting sales to anyone under 21. Richmond Police periodically conduct compliance checks at convenience stores, gas stations, and smoke shops near VCU's Monroe Park campus and the University of Richmond. Retailers must verify ID for purchasers appearing under 30 and post Tobacco 21 signage. Flavored tobacco remains legal statewide, with no Richmond-specific flavor restriction.
Selling tobacco to anyone under 21 violates Virginia Code Section 18.2-371.2 and risks fines, license suspension, and Class 1 misdemeanor charges for repeat offenses.
See how Richmond's tobacco retail license rules stack up against other locations.
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