Q: Now that I am 18, can I legally buy cigarettes?
A: Under Arizona law, no. It is illegal to sell tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to anyone under the age of 21. This aligns with a federal law passed in 2019, known as the “Tobacco 21” (T21) law, which raised the minimum age to purchase tobacco products to 21 nationwide. (A.R.S § 13-3622)
Q: What are tobacco products?
A: A.R.S. §13-3622 defines tobacco products as cigars, cigarettes, cigarette papers, smoking tobacco of any kind, and chewing tobacco. Vapor products contain liquid nicotine, and many of the same laws apply to these substances.
Q: Where is smoking tobacco products allowed?
A: The Smoke Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. §36-601.01) prohibits smoking in all public places and places of employment within Arizona, except in private residences, hotel or motel rooms with designated smoking areas, certain retail tobacco stores, certain clubs not open to the general public, smoking during a religious ceremony (American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978), outdoor patios (provided smoke does not enter restricted areas through entrances, windows, ventilation systems, etc.), or during a theatrical performance on stage or during film or TV production.
Laws may have changed since the last time this article was updated. The current and most up-to-date laws can be accessed here.