Tobacco Retailers

In addition to restricting smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces, the SFOA introduces stricter requirements for tobacco retailers in our community by enhancing restrictions on the promotion and display of cigarettes and other tobacco products and by increasing the age identification requirements for all tobacco sales. In regards to promotion and display, retailers will be prohibited from using countertop displays and must restrict customers from handling tobacco products prior to their purchase. Further, cigarettes can be displayed only in individually wrapped packages until May 31, 2008; at which time tobacco products can no longer be displayed. The Act prohibits promotional material that reflects a particular brand of tobacco product, which includes, but is not limited to, decorative panels and backdrops, backlit or illuminated panels, promotional lighting, and three-dimensional exhibits.
Increased signage requirements for tobacco retailers will include age identification signs, health warning signs, and “responsibilities of the retailer” and “apparent age” signs. Before selling tobacco to any person who appears to be less than 25 years old, a retailer will be required to request identification and be satisfied that the person is at least 19 years old before selling a tobacco product. Acceptable identification will include a photograph of the person wanting to purchase the tobacco product, along with a statement of the person’s date of birth. Also, it must reasonably appear to have been issued by a recognized government agency. Tobacco retailers and owners will be responsible for the actions of employees who sell tobacco products to customers who are under 19 years of age. This means that if an employee of a tobacco retailer sells to a minor, both the seller and the owner may be held responsible.

For more information on this topic please visit the Ministry of Health Promotion website.