Is Vaping & E-Cigarettes Legal in South Carolina? (2026)
Partially — Vaping & E-Cigarettes are legal with restrictions in South Carolina as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: In February 2026, the governor signed a PMTA registry bill into law, which will ban the sale of most vaping products not authorized by the FDA. For the 2026 session, a bill was introduced to ban flavored vape and tobacco products.
Quick Answer
South Carolina prohibits sale of vaping products to persons under 21 (S.C. Code Ann. § 44-95-10) and requires that only products on an approved directory may be sold. Indoor vaping is banned in many public places under the Smoke-Free Air Act. Flavored e-cigarettes are legal but regulated under federal law.
- Age restriction: 21 years old
What the Law Says
A new law establishes a directory of approved vaping products, and it is illegal to sell any product not on this list. It is also illegal to sell to anyone under 21.
— South Carolina Code of Laws §44-95-10
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Personal Use | Legal for adults 21 and older; possession by minors under 21 prohibited. |
| Retail Sale | Sale to persons under 21 prohibited; age verification required; sale of vaping products not on the approved directory is illegal. |
| Penalties | Fines and possible license suspension for violations. |
| Age Restriction | 21 years old |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In February 2026, the governor signed a PMTA registry bill into law, which will ban the sale of most vaping products not authorized by the FDA. For the 2026 session, a bill was introduced to ban flavored vape and tobacco products.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is a growing concern, with law enforcement agencies calling for more help to stop the flow of illegal vapes. A new PMTA registry law is expected to give law enforcement more power to seize and dispose of illegal products.
A common mistake is the sale of unauthorized and illegal vaping products, which is a major focus of a new registry law. Another is the sale of products to individuals under 18.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across South Carolina. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Vaping & E-Cigarettes are legal with restrictions in South Carolina. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
South Carolina vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, buying vaping products is fully legal in 9 states, restricted in 41, and illegal in 0. South Carolina falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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