Tobacco Prevention and Control


In April 2025, Cleveland City Council enacted Ordinance 187-2025, requiring all retailers that sell tobacco products within the city to obtain an annual tobacco retail license for each store location.

This ordinance strengthens Cleveland’s ongoing commitment to protecting public health—especially among youth. By ensuring responsible retail practices and maintaining the legal purchase age of 21 for tobacco products, electronic smoking devices, and related paraphernalia, we help create a healthier, safer community for everyone.



Licensing Requirement:
All retailers selling tobacco products, including self-service and those in smoke shops, must obtain an annual license for each retail location.

This is a new license requirement and is separate from the Ohio Department of Taxation $125 annual cigarette retail license.

How much will a Tobacco Retail License cost?
An annual licensing fee of $500 per store, will apply. This nonrefundable fee covers the administrative costs of managing the licensing program and conducting compliance checks. There is no proration of the annual fee.

How will tobacco regulations be enforced in Cleveland?
Each licensed location will undergo regular inspections that include two components:

• Compliance checks – A trained “secret shopper” will attempt to purchase tobacco products to ensure retailers are not selling to individuals under the legal age of 21.
• Signage inspections – Inspectors will verify that all required signs and age restriction notices are properly displayed and visible to customers.

These enforcement measures help ensure that all retailers follow the law and contribute to protecting the health and safety of Cleveland’s residents—especially youth.



Application Process:
Retailers must apply for a license through the City of Cleveland licensing and assessment web portal

The first license and applications will be for license year 2026, January – December 2026, and are due by December 31, 2025.

Step-by-step instructions can be found here.

For assistance, email:
kminor@clevelandohio.gov