Permit guides › Philadelphia › PHL-TR-11
Philadelphia Tobacco Retailer Permit: Philadelphia restaurant guide
Philadelphia Department of Public Health
What it is
Required to sell any tobacco, cigar, hookah or electronic smoking/vape product.
When a restaurant needs it
Any tobacco or vape sales.
How to apply
Apply online only through the Tobacco Retailer Permit Application; check location eligibility first — new permits are restricted by location.
Documents you’ll need
- PA Tobacco Products License number
- CAL number
- Food license number (if applicable)
- Philadelphia Tax ID (PHTIN)
Fee
$300 for each new and renewal application
Processing time
Varies
Renewal
Annual (renew by December 31; $50 late fee after November 1)
Who files
The business owner applies online.
Good to know
Permits are issued to one person at one location and cannot be transferred on a sale or move.
Official source
PDPH — Get a tobacco retailer permit
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.