FAQs
What are common terms in the tobacco industry?
- OTP (Other Tobacco Products): Products other than cigarettes, like cigars, chewing tobacco, and snuff.
- Cigarette Excise Tax: A tax imposed on wholesalers when purchasing cigarette tax stamps.
- Tax Stamp: A stamp that must be affixed to cigarette packs to show that the excise tax has been paid.
What are fire safe cigarettes?
All cigarettes manufactured or sold in Maryland must be tested and marked as Fire Safety Performance Standards Complaint Cigarettes, sometimes called “Fire Safe Cigarettes.” Manufacturers must certify that these cigarettes are designed to reduce the risk of fires if left unattended. See Business Regulation BR 16-602.
Why can’t I smoke or vape in my workplace, a public building, or at a restaurant?
Maryland’s Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking or vaping inside of public facilities and businesses in Maryland. See Health General 24-504.
Is there an age limit for selling cigarettes?
No, provided that proper work permits are in place.
What is the minimum age to buy or possess cigarettes?
21 years of age. See Criminal Law, 10-107.
Can I order cigarettes over the Internet?
No. It is illegal to purchase cigarettes over the Internet.
How many cigarettes can a consumer bring into Maryland?
No more than five cartons per person for personal use. Importing more than five cartons requires appropriate licensing and payment of excise taxes. Transportation of cigarettes for commercial sale without payment of excise tax is a felony. See Tax General TG 12-104 and TG 13-1015.
What is meant by the “Master Settlement Agreement”?
The Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) is a 1998 settlement between the tobacco industry and 46 states (including Maryland), as well as five U.S. territories. The agreement resolved numerous lawsuits related to the harm caused by tobacco products and required tobacco companies to make annual payments to the states while adhering to restrictions on advertising and marketing. The ATCC and the Office of the Attorney General are charged with enforcement of Maryland’s laws related to the Master Settlement Agreement.
What is the current Maryland excise tax on cigarettes?
The current tax rate is $5.00 per pack of 20.
Who enforces Maryland’s cigarette and tobacco tax laws?
The ATCC’s Field Enforcement Bureau handles the primary enforcement of state laws governing tobacco products related businesses. Health and police agencies in each jurisdiction enforce laws related to underage tobacco access and use.
I am a Tobacco Vending Machine Operator. How do I get a tobacco vending machine sticker?
Vending Machine stickers are issued by the State Licensing Bureau of the Maryland Comptroller. For tobacco related vending machine stickers, contact the Field Enforcement Bureau at 410-260-7388. Stickers will be mailed to you after providing the required information, including your name, company name, and the number of vending machines you operate.
Where can I view a list of tobacco products’ manufacturer or wholesaler licenses?
Tobacco products’ manufacturer or wholesaler licenses can be viewed in the ATCC License and Permit Database where licenses or other permits issued by the ATCC are searchable by type or by business name.
Where can I view a list of tobacco products’ retail licenses?
Tobacco products’ retail licenses can be viewed in databases maintained by local jurisdictions.
How do I become a tobacco products (Cigarettes, Electronic Smoking Devices, and Other Tobacco Products) manufacturer, wholesaler, or retailer that operates in Maryland?
To become a licensed tobacco products manufacturer, wholesaler, or retailer in Maryland, you must apply for the appropriate licenses from the ATCC, depending on whether you’re involved in manufacturing, distributing, or wholesaling. To become a licensed retailer, you may apply with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the jurisdiction where your business is located. Specific licenses are needed to sell cigarettes, Other Tobacco Products (OTP), or Electronic Smoking Devices.
How do I check the status of my alcoholic beverages or tobacco products-related license/permit application?
How do I get a permit and vehicle ID to transport alcohol into the the State of Maryland alcohol?
To deliver alcohol in Maryland, you are required to obtain a Transportation Permit from the ATCC. Depending on your needs, you may apply for one of the following specific permits: Public Transportation, Public Storage & Transportation, or Individual Transportation. Additionally, the vehicle used must be registered with the ATCC and display the appropriate vehicle ID for identification purposes. Application forms can be submitted via email or by mail.
How do I request additional Vehicle Identification Cards (VIDs) for transportation?
If you need additional Vehicle Identification Cards for the transport of alcohol or tobacco, you can complete the “Additional VIDs” form and submit it with the applicable fee. Each VID costs $10.00, and your vehicle must display this ID when transporting regulated products.
How do I apply for a permit or license?
You can apply for a permit or license by completing the appropriate application form specific to your business or activity. Forms can be found on the ATCC website or requested via email. Once completed, you must submit your application along with the corresponding payment to the Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission, either via mail as instructed on the form.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
The required documents depend on the type of license or permit you are applying for. Common documents include:
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- Completed application form
- Proof of identity or incorporation documents
- Financial statements
- Security bonds (for certain licenses)
- Tax registration and Workers’ Compensation compliance certificates
- Zoning letters for in state licenses
- Federal and state alcohol/tobacco licenses or permits
Be sure to review the application checklist attached to your specific form for a complete list of required documents.
How much alcohol can be imported into Maryland?
From within the U.S., one quart of alcohol is tax-free. If you are bringing alcohol from U.S. territories, such as Guam or American Samoa, one gallon is allowed tax-free. For alcohol brought in from outside the U.S., one gallon is permitted, but only one quart of it is tax-free.
How do I obtain a One-Day Alcoholic Beverages License?
A One-Day Liquor License is granted by Local County Liquor Boards for specific events, such as weddings or festivals. You must apply to the local liquor board in the county where the event will be held, and each board may have its own set of requirements for obtaining the permit.
How do I open a Brewery, winery, or distillery?
To open a brewery, winery or distillery, you need to apply for the appropriate production licenses through the ATCC, such as the Manufacturer’s License. You will need to provide proof of local zoning approval, and permits related to health, safety, and environmental impact may also be required. You will also need proof of applicable federal license/permit status, proof of zoning approval, permits related to health and safety, and environmental impact certification may also be required.
How do I open a wholesale business for beer, wine, and/or liquor?
Opening a wholesale business in Maryland requires obtaining a wholesaler’s license from the ATCC. The process involves submitting an application, paying applicable fees, and complying with zoning regulations, proof of insurance, bonding, and any other requirements for a particular license .
How do I check on the status of my alcoholic beverages or tobacco products related license/permit application?
You may also call the ATCC office for assistance.
