The key point to remember: in France, all vaping products, even those without nicotine, are strictly reserved for adults aged 18 and over. This rule, stated in article L3513-5 of the Public Health Code, aims to protect young people from addictive risks. No exceptions apply, regardless of the type of device.
Minimum age for puffs: did you know that the sale of these devices is strictly prohibited to minors under 18 in France, according to article L3513-5 of the Public Health Code? This rule applies even to nicotine-free puffs, as the law aims to prevent any early initiation and behavioral addiction. In this article, discover the precise legal rules, reasons for the ban (protection of youth health), penalties for non-compliant sellers, and concrete steps to report illegal sales, to protect your loved ones and understand the true purpose of the electronic cigarette as a quitting aid for adults.
The legal age for puffs: a clear and direct answer
The 18-year rule: what does the law say?
In France, the sale of all vaping products is prohibited to minors under 18, even without nicotine. This rule applies according to article L3513-5 of the Public Health Code, aiming to protect youth from smoking.
Merchants must systematically verify age via an identity document. Selling to a minor results in fines up to €750 and legal proceedings, regardless of nicotine content.
What about since the ban on disposable puffs in 2025?
Since February 26, 2025, the sale of disposable puffs is banned in France. This measure specifically targets non-rechargeable devices, often favored by adolescents for their sweet flavors and attractive design.
Rechargeable pods remain allowed, but the legal age of 18 applies. The legislation clearly distinguishes between rechargeable and disposable puffs.
The ban addresses ecological concerns (non-recyclable plastic waste) and is part of the national tobacco control program 2023-2027, aiming for sustainable protection of youth and the environment. Penalties can reach €100,000, doubled in case of repeat offenses.
The legal framework for the sale of vaping products in France
Why such a ban for minors?
The sale of puffs to minors is prohibited in France. This measure protects young people from the dangers of nicotine. The products, with their sweet flavors and attractive design, risk initiating addiction in adolescents.
The electronic cigarette is designed to help adult smokers quit. It is not a recreational product. Minors must not have access to it to avoid any early initiation into smoking.
The law requires sellers to systematically verify customers' age. Any failure results in criminal penalties. This rule applies to all points of sale, physical or online.
Adopted in June 2013, this regulation is based on Article L3513-5 of the Public Health Code. It prohibits any sale to a minor under 18 years old, regardless of the product.
Since February 26, 2025, the sale of specific puffs is also prohibited in France. This decision complements existing rules to protect young people from the risks related to nicotine.
A summary of the current legislation
Here are the key points of the French regulation on vaping sales:
| Regulation point | Application details |
|---|---|
| Minimum legal age | 18 years old and above |
| Products concerned | All electronic vaping devices (disposable, rechargeable) and refill bottles (e-liquids). |
| Nicotine presence | The ban applies whether the product contains nicotine or not. |
| Main legal reference | Article L3513-5 of the Public Health Code. |
| Persons targeted by the ban | Minors under 18 years old (purchase prohibited). |
Puff with or without nicotine: the law makes no distinction
The ban applies to all products, without exception
In France, the sale of puffs and any vaping product is prohibited to minors under 18 years old, even without nicotine. The law targets the device itself to protect young people from initiation to these products.
Since February 26, 2025, disposable electronic cigarettes (puffs) are specifically prohibited. This measure aims to limit their appeal to teenagers and reduce environmental pollution.
The Public Health Code (L.3513-5 and R.3515-6) requires sellers to verify age. Any sale to a minor is punishable by law, with strict sanctions.
Sanctions: fine up to €100,000 (€200,000 for repeat offenses). Sellers, online or in-store, must systematically check ID.
Illegal sales lead to legal proceedings. Protecting minors is a priority, even for products without nicotine.
Understanding behavioral addiction beyond nicotine
Even without nicotine, vaping creates a habitual gesture. This behavior can serve as a gateway to products containing nicotine, hence the importance of prevention.
- Physical addiction related to nicotine
- Behavioral addiction facilitating access to more harmful substances
Sweet flavors and the attractive design of puffs specifically target teenagers, increasing the risk of early initiation even without nicotine.
The legislator acts to break this cycle. The regulation aims to protect minors from all potential forms of addiction.
Vaping can lead to tobacco or cannabis use. Banning access from adolescence is essential to prevent these risks.
French law strictly prohibits any vaping product to minors. It is a key measure to protect their future.
Seller obligations and sanctions: what to do in case of an offense?
In France, the sale of puffs and vaping products to minors under 18 is strictly prohibited. This law (Public Health Code, L 3513-1) protects minors from the dangers of nicotine, especially on brain development. It applies to all devices, refills, and e-cigarettes, even without nicotine. This ban aims to prevent early initiation into smoking. Sellers must verify age under penalty of sanctions.
The duty of age verification for merchants
All sellers (tobacconists, online sites) must verify age. For products other than puffs, sale is reserved for those 18 and older. Selling to a minor results in a fine of €1,500. Since February 2025, the sale of puffs is prohibited to everyone (fine €100,000). A UFC-Que Choisir survey (2024) shows 75% of tobacconists sold puffs to minors. Specialized stores often comply with the law, unlike tobacconists and grocery stores. Age verification is mandatory even without nicotine. Minors are not penalized, but sellers face severe penalties. Enhanced controls reduce illegal sales. Sanctions include fines and business closures.
How to report an illegal sale to a minor?
Report via DGCCRF (signal.conso.gouv.fr), police station, gendarmerie, or associations (CNCT, Génération Sans Tabac). Keep evidence (receipt, photo). Tabac Info Service (39 89) assists citizens. Associations offer legal support. These reports strengthen the fight against youth smoking. Reports facilitate enhanced inspections.
- Contact the DGCCRF via signal.conso.gouv.fr.
- File a complaint at the police station or gendarmerie.
- Report to anti-smoking associations.
Vaping: a cessation tool for adults, not a product for youth
In France, the sale of puffs and all vaping products is strictly prohibited to minors under 18 years old. This legal measure protects young people from the risks associated with nicotine. The ban aims to preserve adolescent brain development.
The true purpose of the electronic cigarette
The electronic cigarette was developed as a cessation aid tool for adult smokers. It is not intended for young non-smokers. Even before the ban on puffs in February 2025, their sale was reserved for adults. The regulation applies even to nicotine-free products. Sellers systematically verify age. Selling to a minor is punishable by law. For adult smokers, devices like the Puff 15000 RAZZBAR exist, but their purchase remains strictly reserved for adults.
What alternatives are there for minors who want to quit smoking?
For minors, vaping products are prohibited. Recommended solutions:
- Consult a health professional (doctor or tobacco specialist) for personalized follow-up.
- Use nicotine substitutes at pharmacies (patches, gums, lozenges, sprays) prescribed by a professional.
- Contact Tabac Info Service at 39 89 for free and anonymous support.
These solutions validated by health professionals allow for safe and effective withdrawal. Tabac Info Service offers personalized support with a success rate of 87% according to official data.
In France, the legal age for puffing is 18 years old. These products, intended for adults to quit tobacco, are strictly prohibited for minors. To stop smoking, young people must consult a professional and use nicotine substitutes available at pharmacies. Protecting adolescent health is a priority.
