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Insight
The Tobacco and Vapes Licensing Bill 2025 (the “Bill”) introduces a new regulatory framework for the sale of nicotine-based products across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
If enacted as expected, the legislation will come into force on 1 January 2027 and will fundamentally change how tobacco and vape products are licensed and regulated.
The proposed regime will introduce new licensing requirements for retailers, tighter enforcement powers and long-term restrictions on tobacco sales as part of the Government’s plan to create a “smoke-free generation”.
This guide explains what the Bill means for retailers, operators and licence holders.
The Bill is currently expected to come into force on 1 January 2027.
However, secondary legislation and detailed regulations are still awaited, meaning the precise operational framework has not yet been finalised.
Retailers should begin preparing now to avoid compliance issues once the regime becomes mandatory.
Yes.
Under the proposed legislation, two types of licence are expected to apply, mirroring the structure of the existing alcohol licensing system.
Any location where nicotine-based products are:
will require a premises licence.
Any individual who:
vapes, tobacco or other nicotine products will likely require a personal licence.
Although the final requirements have not yet been confirmed, it is anticipated that applicants may need to pass an accredited examination, similar to the alcohol personal licensing regime.
The legislation applies to “relevant products”, including:
Retailers should assume broad coverage unless specific exemptions are introduced in secondary legislation.
Although the final conditions have not yet been confirmed, regulations may introduce requirements similar to those seen in alcohol and gambling licensing regimes.
Potential conditions could include:
Retailers should anticipate robust compliance and enforcement standards.
A key feature of the Bill is the phased prohibition on the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.
This policy aims to gradually eliminate tobacco use by preventing younger generations from ever legally purchasing tobacco products.
Retailers will need robust age verification procedures capable of handling this rolling age restriction.
Two principal enforcement powers are currently available.
These may be imposed following repeated convictions for under-age sales and prohibit tobacco sales from the specific premises named in the order.
These prohibit an individual from selling tobacco or vape products, either from the relevant premises or any other location.
The Government is also considering extending smoke-free legislation to prohibit vaping in enclosed hospitality venues, including pubs and bars. If implemented, this would have significant implications for the licensed trade sector.
Although full details are still awaited, businesses should begin preparing by:
Early preparation will reduce the risk of enforcement action when the regime takes effect.
We will continue to provide updates as further details, consultations and regulations are published.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the Tobacco and Vapes Licensing Bill 2025, contact our Licensing on 01332 226 151 or complete the form below.
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