Changes to the Law

On Monday 1 October 2007 the law changed.

It is now illegal in Scotland to sell tobacco and tobacco products to anyone under the age of 18 (an increase from 16). This includes cigarettes, cigars, loose rolling tobacco and rolling papers and applies both to over the counter and vending machine sales.

This means you need to display a notice saying: 'It is illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under the age of 18.'

If you only sell by vending machine, you need to ensure the following words appear on the vending machine: 'This machine is only for the use of people aged 18 or over.'

Why the law has changed

Most addicted adult smokers began as teenagers. This change in the law is to help prevent children and young people from starting in the first place, therefore avoiding the serious health dangers of smoking.

What you need to know

As before, you need to display a sign clearly stating the age restriction on selling tobacco products. The requirements are the same as before in all respects other than that the age has changed from 16 to 18.