Florida’s large population and booming tourism make it an appealing state for opening a vape shop. This guide covers everything you need to know including licensing, age restrictions, indoor vaping laws, zoning, and recent legislative developments to successfully start a vape business in FL.
Step 1 – Research Relevant Vape Shop Laws in Florida
It’s crucial to thoroughly research state and local licensing, age limits, indoor vaping bans, and any vape taxes that apply to the specific city or county you’ll be located in. Failing to comply with Florida vape regulations can lead to stiff penalties.
Florida Vape Shop Licensing and Permitting
To legally operate a vape shop selling nicotine products in Florida, you need:
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- Florida Retail Tobacco Products Dealer Permit – Apply through the Florida DHSMV. This costs $50 annually.
- County and/or City Business Tax License – Requires a different license for each locality your shop is in. Fees vary.
- Zoning Permit – Some FL counties require special use permits for new vape shops. Check with the local zoning office.
Be sure to register your business name and file a DBA as well. All licenses must be displayed publicly in your vape shop.
Minimum Age for Vaping in Florida
As of 2021, Florida raised the minimum age to purchase and possess vaping products to 21 years old. Previously it was 18.
Vape shop owners must verify the ID of every customer to ensure they meet the 21+ age requirement before allowing purchases. Check anyone appearing under 30 to be safe.
Is There a Vape Tax in Florida?
Florida does not currently have any statewide excise or special tax specifically on vaping products like e-cigs and e-liquids. Retail sales tax still applies to vape gear purchases.
However, some individual counties and cities in Florida have implemented additional local taxes, such as a 5% tax on nicotine liquid in Brevard County. Thoroughly research local ordinances.
Where is Vaping Banned in Florida?
Florida’s Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits vaping in all enclosed workplaces including bars, restaurants, and shops. Educational facilities, childcare facilities, hospitals, and public transit are also included.
This does not apply to standalone age-restricted tobacco/vape shops. Vape shop owners can allow on-site sampling with proper ventilation and age verification.
Some Florida cities and counties also ban vaping outdoors in certain public parks, beaches, and other spaces. Check relevant local vaping prohibitions.
Step 2 – Select the Ideal Vape Shop Location
Finding a spot with steady foot traffic and visibility is key. Busy downtowns, tourist hot spots, entertainment districts, and areas near colleges tend to be ideal. Areas with strict zoning prohibitions should be avoided.
Ideally look for 1000+ square feet of space with parking availability. Scout locations in person and use Google Street View to evaluate traffic.
Step 3 – Apply for Proper Licensing and Permits
You’ll need a state tobacco retail permit, county/city business licenses, sales tax permit, and possibly specialized local vape shop permits. Obtain general liability insurance to cover any issues that arise too.
Step 4 – Estimate Build Out and Opening Costs
Typical startup costs may include:
- Shop build out & renovations – $10,000 to $100,000+ depending on size and work needed
- Inventory – $5,000 to $10,000 for hardware, juice, displays, etc.
- POS system – $500 to $2000 for hardware and software
- Licensing fees – $100 to $500
- Insurance – General liability around $1000/year
- Legal fees – $300+ for business formation needs
- Other costs – signage, security, furnishings, marketing, misc. supplies
Create a detailed cost estimate and get quotes from local contractors.
Step 5 – Create Your Vape Shop Brand Identity
Come up with a memorable name and have a logo designed that conveys your style. Ensure branding is consistent across in-store displays, website, labels, and all marketing material. A solid brand attracts loyal customers.
Step 6 – Carefully Select Your Products and Inventory
Find reputable American e-juice labs and hardware manufacturers. Stock a wide variety of mods, tanks, coils, e-liquids, batteries, and accessories to cater to all levels of vapers. Order samples before large inventory purchases.
Step 7 – Promote and Market Your Vape Shop
Spread awareness about your grand opening and new shop through print/radio ads, press releases, social media, search engine optimization, and outreach to local journalists and influencers. Offer promotions and loyalty programs to keep customers coming back.
Step 8 – Follow Best Practices
Run your shop professionally by always checking IDs, closely following vaping regulations, training staff thoroughly on products, providing exceptional customer service, and maintaining a safe, enjoyable retail environment. Going above and beyond sets you apart.
With proper planning and effort, you can successfully launch a thriving vape shop in this high-potential Florida market. Just take it step-by-step while accounting for all crucial business considerations.
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