Tobacco Retail Store Registration

All stores that sell tobacco must register with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). This is a rule from the Smoke Free Air Act. After you register, you can allow smoking on your premises. You only need to register once and there is no fee.

• Review the form and requirements: Make sure you understand the form and what you need to register.
  Application and Instructions for a Retail Tobacco Store (PDF)

• Definition of a retail tobacco store: A retail tobacco store mainly sells tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco and chewing tobacco. It can also sell accessories. Other products can be sold, but they must make up less than 50% of the total yearly sales.

• Matching names on documents: The name on all documents submitted must match the name on your application.

• Provide a valid photo ID: You need to include a copy of a valid photo ID with your application. The name on the ID must match the name on your application. Valid IDs include:

  • Driver's license or non-driver ID
  • Alien Registration Card or Naturalization Certificate
  • U.S. or foreign passport
  • NYC Identification Card (IDNYC)

• Food service establishments cannot register as a retail tobacco store. They also cannot allow smoking of tobacco products. A food service establishment is where food or drinks are provided to customers, either for free or for sale, and can be eaten on or off the premises.

• Review process: The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) will look at your application. They will check if you filled out the form correctly and included all needed information. If your application is not complete, you will be notified in writing given the opportunity to re-submit a corrected application.
• Acceptance notice: If your application is accepted, you will be notified in writing. The DOHMH may ask for more supporting documentation to make sure your store meets the criteria.
• Contact information: If you have questions or do not hear from the Department of Health within 14 days after applying, please call the number below.

• Make electronic copies: Make electronic copies of all required supporting documents.

• Create an online account: Go to the NYC Online Licensing System and create an account. Select the new permit type "Tobacco/E-Cig Retail Registration" and complete the online application. You will need to upload copies of your supporting documents.

• Complete the application: Fill out the application for registration and gather all required supporting documents.
  Application for Registration of a Retail Tobacco Shop

• Submit your application: Submit your completed application and copies of your required documents at the DCWP Citywide Licensing Center.
  
  NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)
  Licensing Center
  42 Broadway, Lobby
  New York, NY 10004
  Email: onlineappsdocs@dcwp.nyc.gov