Vapes and the single-use vape ban

From 1 June 2025 it will be illegal to sell single-use (disposable) vapes under The Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (England) Regulations 2024.

Disposable vapes waste valuable resources and are often discarded improperly, releasing harmful substances into the environment and posing fire hazards if they end up in landfills.

What's changing

From 1 June any vapes you sell must:

• be rechargeable
• be refillable with e-liquid
• have a replaceable coil.

If you sell single-use vapes after 1 June, you will be committing a criminal offence and could be liable to:

• stock being seized
• investigation
• enforcement action.

What you need to do

Before the ban comes into place, you need to check that the vapes you stock meet the requirements.

Visit GOV.UK to find out what you need to do to prepare for the single-use vapes ban.

‘Big Puff Devices’

Do not assume a product with a higher capacity will automatically be compliant with the new regulations.

Over the past 18 months several new products have been introduced to the market, many of which offer higher capacity either through pods or refill bottles attached to the device. It is important to note that many of these products were designed prior to the specifications outlined in the regulations and may not fully comply with all the current requirements.

Numerous hybrid products provide only one refill or are not designed to allow for the replacement of the coil. In anticipation of the upcoming ban, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) will begin removing notifications for products that will no longer be compliant. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly check the MHRA portal for updates.

Protect your business

• Sign up to KCC Trading Standards alert messages.
• Join a trade association like the Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) which is the trade organisation for all responsible and ethical independent vape businesses in the UK, or the UK Vaping Industry Association.
• The MHRA provides advice for retailers and producers of e-cigarette/vape products.
• Local Vape Action (LVA) is a local partnership approach to help develop effective local plans to ensure vapes are only used and bought by adults in local communities. They focus on stopping underage vaping and making sure retailers follow the rules.

If you need further advice email vapes@kent.gov.uk.

Selling age-restricted goods

As a business, it's up to you to ensure your employees are aware of their legal obligations. In the UK, certain products come with legal age restrictions for sale. Find out what you need to do if you sell age-restricted goods.

Report an issue

Consumers can report any issues concerning vapes to:

• vapes@kent.gov.uk
• Citizens Advice consumer service
• CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111. You'll stay 100% anonymous, always.