Are Vapes Banned in South Carolina? A Complete 2025 Guide

South Carolina’s regulations have been evolving, and many vapers, retailers, and travelers want to know what is currently allowed in 2025. you’re likely looking for clarity on state vaping laws, flavored vape restrictions, age requirements, and whether any statewide bans are in effect. This guide breaks down the latest rules, what products remain legal, and how proposed legislation could affect vaping in the state.

Are Vapes Banned in South Carolina?

No — vapes are not banned in South Carolina. As of 2025, vaping products, including disposables, vape mods, nicotine e-liquids, and refillable systems, remain legal to purchase and use for adults aged 18 and older.

However, several laws regulate where you can vape, who can buy these products, and how they are sold.

South Carolina Vape Laws in 2025

1. Legal Age to Buy Vapes

South Carolina follows the federal Tobacco 21 rule.

• You must be 21 or older to buy any vape product, including disposables and e-liquids.
• Retailers must verify ID for all sales.

2. Public Vaping Restrictions

While South Carolina does not have a statewide indoor vaping ban, many local governments impose restrictions. Common areas where vaping is usually prohibited include:

• Government buildings
• Schools and school grounds
• Healthcare facilities
• Indoor workplaces depending on local ordinances

Always check local county and city laws, as enforcement varies.

3. Flavored Vape Ban Status

South Carolina does not have a statewide flavored vape ban.

Flavored disposables and flavored e-liquids remain legal for adults.

However:

• Some lawmakers continue to push for a flavor ban aimed at reducing youth access.
• Retailers should stay aware of ongoing legislative proposals that could affect future sales.

4. Online Vape Sales

Online vape purchases are allowed, but they must comply with:

• Age verification at checkout
• Adult signature upon delivery
• Federal PACT Act reporting requirements

Most major online vape vendors ship to South Carolina without restriction.

5. Taxes on Vape Products

South Carolina currently does not impose a special state excise tax on vape products, making vapes more affordable compared to states with high vape taxes such as California or New York.

Sales tax still applies.

Is South Carolina Planning a Vape Ban?

Several bills have been introduced over recent years involving:

• Flavor bans
• Stricter retail licensing
• Online sales controls
• Youth-access prevention

None of these have passed as full bans, but the legislative landscape continues to shift. A flavor ban remains the most likely future regulatory move if lawmakers revisit youth vaping concerns.

Can You Vape in Public Places?

Whether you can vape publicly depends on the city or business.

Most vape-friendly locations include:

• Outdoor areas
• Vape shops
• Bars and restaurants that allow it (varies)

Most vape-restricted areas include:

• Schools and universities
• Public transportation
• Government offices
• Hospitals and clinics

When in doubt, look for posted “No Smoking/Vaping” signs or ask staff.

Traveling With Vapes in South Carolina

Travelers can bring vapes into the state without issue. TSA rules still apply:

• Vapes must be stored in carry-on luggage.
• E-liquids are subject to the 100ml liquid limit.
• Batteries follow standard airline regulations.

There are no additional South Carolina-specific travel restrictions.

Conclusion

South Carolina has not banned vapes, and adults can still legally buy and use vaping products across the state. The minimum age for purchasing remains 21, and while flavored vapes are still allowed, lawmakers continue to discuss possible future restrictions. Public vaping rules vary by city, with common prohibitions in schools, government buildings, healthcare facilities, and certain workplaces. Online vape orders are permitted as long as retailers follow age-verification and PACT Act requirements, and South Carolina currently has no special vape excise tax. Although several proposals have aimed to tighten regulations, none have resulted in a statewide ban, keeping South Carolina one of the more vape-accessible states in 2025.

FAQs

1. Are vapes banned in South Carolina?

No. South Carolina has not banned vapes. Adults aged 21 and older can legally purchase and use vape products, including disposables, mods, and flavored e-liquids. State laws focus more on age restrictions and where vaping is allowed rather than banning products.

2. Are flavored vapes illegal in South Carolina?

Flavored vapes are still legal in South Carolina. The state has not passed a flavored vape ban, though lawmakers have considered it in the past. All flavor profiles—fruit, menthol, dessert, and tobacco—remain available to adult consumers.

3. What is the legal age to buy vapes in South Carolina?

South Carolina follows the federal Tobacco 21 regulation, meaning you must be at least 21 years old to buy any vapor product. Retailers are required to verify ID for all sales, both in-store and online.

4. Can you vape in public places in South Carolina?

Public vaping rules vary by city and county. Many areas prohibit vaping in schools, government buildings, hospitals, and certain indoor workplaces. Outdoor spaces and vape shops are generally more permissive, but it’s best to check posted signs or local ordinances.

5. Are online vape sales allowed in South Carolina?

Yes. Online vape purchases are permitted as long as the seller follows federal PACT Act requirements, including age verification at checkout and an adult signature upon delivery. Most major online vape retailers continue to ship to South Carolina without restrictions.