Ohio Vapor Product Retail Licensing Rules

Ohio law treats electronic smoking devices and vapor products as tobacco products subject to licensing through the Department of Taxation and the Department of Public Safety. Retailers must verify customer age, follow the state vapor product excise tax under ORC Chapter 5743, and limit sales to tobacco-product retail outlets. HB 513 (2022) created statewide preemption of local restrictions on the sale, distribution, and promotion of tobacco and vapor products, although the legislature later passed HB 462 attempting to restore some local control, with continued litigation.

Selling without a license or to underage purchasers can lead to license suspension, civil penalties, and criminal charges under ORC 2927.02.