City of Long Beach DHHS Tobacco Retail Enforcement Program

Do you sell tobacco products?


You must have a valid Tobacco Retail Permit
issued annually by the City of Long Beach
 

This permit requirement has been enacted to discourage the sale of tobacco products to minors. Anyone who sells tobacco products without an annual city permit is subject to criminal prosecution which may be punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine (Long Beach Municipal Code § 5.81). The City of Long Beach annual Tobacco Retail Permit is required in addition to your State License issued by the California State Board of Equalization. Call (800) 400-7115 for your State License.
Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to obtain an annual Long Beach Tobacco Retail Permit?
Anyone who sells cigarettes, tobacco products and/or tobacco paraphernalia within the City of Long Beach. This annual City Permit is in addition to the annual Cigarette and Tobacco License issued by the California State Board of Equalization. Call (800) 400-7115 for your State License.

How much does the Long Beach Tobacco Retail Permit cost?
The annual fee is $469.00 for each permit (at each location).  The term of the permit is one year beginning August 1 and ending on July 31 of the following year.  Permit fees shall not be prorated.

How do I obtain the annual Long Beach Tobacco Retail Permit?

  • You must first submit an application by mail or fax to the Tobacco Retail Enforcement Program at: 2525 Grand Avenue, Room 220 Long Beach, CA 90815. Fax#: (562) 570-8124
  • Once your application has been approved, you will be billed for the annual permit fee.
  • Your Tobacco Retail Permit must be renewed annually and will not be issued until payment is received.
    (DO NOT MAIL PAYMENT WITH YOUR APPLICATION)

Where can I get an application?
Applications are available:

  • City Hall: 333 W. Ocean Blvd., 4th Floor, Long Beach, CA 90802
  • Telephone: Call (562) 570-7905 and request an application be sent to you.
  • Health Department: 2525 Grand Avenue, Rm. 220, Long Beach, CA 90815
  • Or download the Permit Application
For more information, contact the City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services Tobacco Retail Enforcement Program at: Phone: (562) 570-7905 or 7923 FAX: (562) 570-8124

YOU MUST HAVE BOTH
clb license ca tobacco license

IMPORTANT
Pursuant to Long Beach Municipal Code 5.81

  • It is illegal to engage in the sale of tobacco, tobacco products, and/or tobacco paraphernalia without a valid annual Tobacco Retail Permit issued by the City of Long Beach.
  • It is illegal to sell tobacco, tobacco products, and/or tobacco paraphernalia from a non-fixed location (vehicles, mobile carts; ice cream and catering trucks). Retailing by persons on foot is also prohibited.
  • Separate permits must be obtained for each fixed retailing location, even if owned and operated by the same person. The permit must be prominently displayed at all times.
  • Failure to comply is illegal and may constitute an infraction or a misdemeanor. It may also result in the suspension or revocation of your ability to sell tobacco products at a business location.
  • NOTE: Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places and workplaces in Long Beach, including but not limited to retail stores and retail service establishments (such as markets, tobacco shops, cigar lounges, bars, restaurants, and gaming clubs). LBMC 8.68