Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

San Bernardino County, CA Tobacco & Vaping: Tobacco Age Restrictions (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: California Business and Professions Code 22963 →

Recently verified

Key Facts

Minimum age: 21 years
Military exemption: Active duty 18 plus
ID check threshold: Anyone under 30
First fine: 400 dollars

These county ordinances apply to of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

California Tobacco 21 law bars sale of cigarettes, vapes, and other tobacco products to anyone under 21 in San Bernardino County, with active duty military exempt to age 18.

Full Breakdown

California Senate Bill 7 raised the minimum tobacco purchase age to 21 in 2016, codified at Business and Professions Code 22963. The rule covers cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, vape liquids, chewing tobacco, and tobacco paraphernalia sold across San Bernardino County. Active duty military members 18 to 20 remain exempt under SBC retailer practice. Retailers must check ID for anyone appearing under 30 and post Tobacco 21 signage at point of sale. SBC Public Health and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration conduct decoy operations, especially near high schools, community colleges, and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms gates.

Violations & Fines

Selling to under-21 customers triggers fines starting at 400 dollars per violation, with license suspension after three offenses in five years and possible criminal charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 19-year-old Marine buy cigarettes?

Yes, with valid military ID. California exempts active duty service members aged 18 to 20 from the Tobacco 21 minimum age. Retailers near Twentynine Palms commonly verify both ID and active status.

What if a parent buys for their kid?

Furnishing tobacco to a person under 21 is a separate offense under state law and can carry fines up to 200 dollars even between family members. The retailer is liable too if they knew.

How does San Bernardino County compare?

See how San Bernardino County's tobacco age restrictions rules stack up against other locations.

Compare to Another Location View California Overview

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

San Bernardino County, CA Tobacco & Vaping: Tobacco Age Restrictions (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related San Bernardino County Ordinances

Cannabis Regulations: Home Cultivation

Environmental Rules: Coastal Development

Swimming Pools & Spas: Above-Ground Pools

Immigration Policy: Sanctuary Policy Preemption

Employment Preemption: Paid Leave Preemption

Employment Preemption: Minimum Wage Preemption

More Tobacco & Vaping in San Bernardino County

Tobacco Age Restrictions in Other Cities

How does San Bernardino County compare?

See something wrong?