Current Tobacco Laws: What You Need to Know

Retailers must be 21 or older to sell tobacco and electronic smoking devices; selling to anyone under 21 can lead to fines up to $1,000, license suspension, or revocation.

Stores must check ID for purchasers under 30 and display a state-mandated sign warning of penalties for underage sales (minimum 6″ x 3″).

Since April 2020, the sale of flavored vapor products—including menthol—is prohibited under NJ law. Violations can incur penalties of up to $10,000 for first offenses and $20,000 for subsequent ones.

The New Jersey Smoke‑Free Air Act bans smoking and vaping in nearly all indoor public places and workplaces, such as restaurants, bars, shopping malls, schools, and medical facilities.

Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of building entrances, as well as in outdoor public areas including parks, beaches, and school grounds.

All retailers selling cigarettes or vape products must hold a valid tobacco or vapor business license, renewed annually (starting April 1st) with fees typically around $50 per location.

Coupons, price rebates, and other promotional discounts on tobacco and vapor products are prohibited.

E-cigarettes are classified as tobacco products. There are detailed legal definitions for devices, liquid nicotine, and containers. Devices and liquids are taxed and regulated similarly to cigarettes.

As of August 1, 2025, tax rates are:

• $3.00 per 20-cigarette pack

• $0.30 per milliliter of liquid nicotine

• 30% of the retail price for e-liquid containers.

Smoking on public transportation—including buses, rail, limousines, and ride services—is prohibited (N.J. Stat. § 2C:33‑13).

Section 6 of P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D‑6) requires New Jersey to provide basic medical assistance—including hospital, physician, and nursing care—to qualified Medicaid applicants.