On Aug. 1, 2025, a new North Bergen ordinance regulating tobacco and nicotine-delivery product sales will officially go into effect. The law, which was passed unanimously by the Board of Commissioners last December, requires all tobacco retailers to obtain an annual license from the Township in addition to their existing state license. The ordinance is a major step forward, and the most aggressive in the state, in protecting local youth from illegal tobacco sales.

 

“We’re closing enforcement loopholes and stepping up to do what the state has not,” said Mayor Nicholas Sacco. “This ordinance gives our Health Department and law enforcement the tools they need to ensure retailers are held accountable and that our young people are better protected from the harms of tobacco.”

 

Under the new law, it is illegal to sell tobacco or nicotine-delivery products in North Bergen without a Township-issued license. Retailers must apply through the Business Licensing Clerk and renew annually. The law also bans self-service displays, all flavored tobacco products, and sales to individuals under 21. Businesses that violate the ordinance face fines up to $1,000 per day and risk license suspension or revocation.

 

The local licensing program is a direct result of data gathered through the North Bergen Tobacco Age of Sale Enforcement (T.A.S.E.) program and the North Bergen Prevention Coalition, which uncovered widespread noncompliance with age restrictions at local establishments.

 

The ordinance also mandates signage requirements, prohibits sampling, requires face-to-face sales, and ensures that all tobacco and vaping products are sold in child-resistant packaging. Violations will be enforced by the Township Health Department, code enforcement, and police. In addition to these regulations, North Bergen will be the first in the state to ban the sale of all flavored tobacco products starting January 1, 2026.

 

Retailers are urged to apply for their local license immediately to remain in compliance before the Aug. 1 enforcement date. Application forms are available through the North Bergen Department of Health.