Tobacco Permitting

Retailers selling or distributing tobacco products or paraphernalia are required to be permitted, inspected, and regulated by the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health. This requirement applies to all unincorporated areas and most incorporated cities throughout the county.

The permitting process serves as a two-fold purpose; one, to increase compliance with county/city, state, and federal tobacco laws including prohibiting tobacco sales to minors, self service tobacco, selling single cigarettes, and more. And second, enforce compliance through permit revocation and fines.

How to Obtain a Tobacco Permit

^{All Applications must be submitted on our official form and must include the name, address, and phone number of each proprietor; the business name, address, and phone number of the retail location; an authorized mailing address for permit related communications; and proof of a valid California tobacco license issued by the Board of Equalization is required for permit approval.}

Applications:

Riverside County Tobacco Application California Department of Tax and Fee Administration Tobacco License Application

Training Opportunities

The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) is offering interactive classes on its Cigarette and Tobacco Products Licensing Program and related tobacco tax laws. The classes are designed to inform, answer questions, and help California sellers of cigarettes and tobacco products understand their requirements and avoid penalties. Navigate to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration website to see the schedule of classes and to register. You may also call CDTFA at (916) 322-8536 for more information.