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Alabama Statewide Rule

Alabama Vape and Electronic Nicotine Retail Rules

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Alabama (2026)

Key Facts

Permit Requirement
Permit required to sell vapor products
Minimum Age
Tobacco 21 minimum sales age
Age Verification
Age verification required at point of sale
Enforcement
Penalties include fines and permit loss
Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: State of Alabama

Summary

Alabama regulates the retail sale of vapor products and electronic nicotine devices through Code Section 28-11-13, requiring permits, age verification, and restricted youth marketing.

(a) A person desiring to operate as a specialty retailer of electronic nicotine delivery systems shall apply for a permit from the board. The board, by rule, shall establish requirements for the permit, which shall include an application fee of fifty dollars ($50). On approval by the board, the person shall pay to the board a permit fee of one thousand dollars ($1,000), which shall be renewed annually. All fees collected by the board under this section shall be deposited into the Vaping Licensing and Enforcement Fund under Section 28-11-10. (b) A permit issued under this section shall be valid only for one location specified in the permit application. (c)(1) Except as provided in subdivision (2), e-liquids, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and vapor-based alternative nicotine products may only be sold at retail by a permitted specialty retailer of electronic nicotine delivery systems.

Source: State of AlabamaView official code

Full Breakdown

Code of Alabama Section 28-11-13 and related provisions require retailers selling vapor products, e-cigarettes, and alternative nicotine products to obtain a state tobacco permit and verify age before sale. Sales to anyone under 21 are prohibited under federal Tobacco 21 standards adopted by Alabama. Retailers must train clerks, post age-restriction signage, and avoid sales near schools where prohibited. Self-service displays are limited, and online or mail-order sales must use age-verified shipping. Violations can lead to permit suspension, civil fines, and criminal penalties.

Violations & Penalties

Selling vape products without a permit or to underage buyers risks fines, permit suspension, and misdemeanor charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Alabama retailers need a permit to sell vapes?
Yes. Retailers must hold a state tobacco permit and comply with packaging, signage, and age-verification rules.
What is the minimum age to buy vape products?
Twenty-one years old, consistent with federal Tobacco 21 and Code Section 28-11-13 enforcement.

Sources

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