Wisconsin Tobacco 21 Sale Age Restrictions

Following federal Tobacco 21 enactment, Wisconsin updated Wis. Stat. 134.66 to prohibit sale or distribution of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, and vapor products to anyone under 21. Retailers must check government-issued photo identification for any purchaser appearing under age 30. The statute also prohibits possession of tobacco products by persons under 21 except in certain exempted contexts. Vending machines must be located where minors are not permitted, and free sample distribution is heavily restricted. Local governments may enforce the rule alongside state inspectors but cannot adopt stricter age limits beyond what state law provides.

Sale to under-21 customers is punishable by fines starting at $200 and escalating for repeat offenses. Persons under 21 found purchasing or possessing tobacco may face fines up to $50 along with educational requirements. Retailers can lose their license after repeat violations.