North Bergen Takes Aggressive Step to Protect Youth from Tobacco with New Ordinance

Strategic Insights -

The Township of North Bergen in New Jersey has implemented a comprehensive new ordinance regulating tobacco and nicotine-delivery product sales, making it the most aggressive in the state in protecting local youth from illegal tobacco sales. The ordinance, which went into effect on August 1, 2025, requires all tobacco retailers to obtain an annual license from the Township in addition to their existing state license. The law is a major step forward in addressing the issue of underage tobacco sales.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new ordinance in North Bergen requires all tobacco retailers to obtain an annual license from the Township in addition to their existing state license.
  • The law bans the sale of flavored tobacco products and sales to individuals under 21.
  • Retailers must apply through the Business Licensing Clerk and renew annually, and face fines up to $1,000 per day and risk license suspension or revocation for non-compliance.
  • 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.
  • North Bergen will be the first in the state to ban the sale of all flavored tobacco products starting January 1, 2026.
  • In addition, the ordinance strengthens enforcement by empowering the Township Health Department, code enforcement, and police to take action against violators.
  • 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.

Statistics:

  • 100% of all tobacco retailers in North Bergen must obtain an annual license from the Township starting August 1, 2025.
  • $1,000 per day is the maximum fine for retailers who fail to comply with the new ordinance.
  • 21 is the minimum age to purchase tobacco products under the new law.
  • Enforcment will be conducted by the Township Health Department, code enforcement, and police.
  • 1,000+ is the estimated number of applications expected from retailers before the enforcement date.

Sources:

  • [North Bergen Township]