Retailers across the UK are now prohibited from selling vaping or nicotine products to under-18s, after new rules extended existing restrictions to nicotine-free vapes, nicotine pouches and other products.
The measures took effect on 29 October 2026 under the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026. They also restrict proxy purchasing, promotional giveaways, substantial promotional discounts and vending-machine sales. Selling nicotine-containing vapes to children was already illegal; the new law closes additional gaps.
What has changed?
The minimum age of sale is now 18 for all vaping and nicotine products, including nicotine-free vapes, nicotine pouches, strips and pearls. Devices, e-liquids, pods and coils are covered. Nicotine-containing vapes were already age-restricted, while Scotland had also previously restricted nicotine-free vapes. Medicinal products and medical devices are excluded from these particular rules.
Adults banned from buying vapes for children
Adults aged 18 or over now commit an offence if they buy or attempt to buy vaping or nicotine products for someone under 18. Retailers should refuse suspected proxy purchases. The offence applies to the adult purchaser, not automatically to the child.
Penalties and enforcement
Selling to an underage customer can attract a £200 fixed penalty notice in England, Wales and Scotland. In Northern Ireland, a proposed £250 notice is subject to Assembly approval. Prosecution can lead to higher fines, up to £2,500 in England, Wales and Scotland or £5,000 in Northern Ireland. Persistent offenders may face restricted sale or premises orders. Trading Standards leads retail enforcement in England. The Government has announced up to £30 million annually for enforcement agencies until 2028–29, including up to £10 million for Trading Standards and 120 specialist apprentices.
Promotional giveaways and vending machines
The law prohibits promotional giveaways and substantial promotional discounts for vaping and nicotine products, including relevant online promotions and coupons. Vending-machine sales are also prohibited, subject to limited exceptions. Public-authority stop-smoking arrangements can continue supplying products to adult smokers under applicable exemptions.
Public health arguments
The Department of Health and Social Care estimates that more than one million children have tried vaping and more than 370,000 vape regularly. Ministers say the measures close gaps in existing legislation. The Government also acknowledges that vaping is less harmful than smoking and can help adult smokers quit, while advising children and non-smokers not to vape.
Further restrictions scheduled for 2027
From 1 January 2027, sales of tobacco products, herbal smoking products and cigarette papers to people born on or after 1 January 2009 are due to be prohibited. A comprehensive advertising and sponsorship ban is intended from 1 June 2027. Proposals on packaging, flavours, displays and additional smoke-free or vape-free places remain under consideration; they are not all in force.
What retailers need to do
Retailers, including online sellers, must apply the new age-of-sale rules, review age checks and staff training, and ensure promotions comply. Enforcement and specific defences can differ among the UK nations.