As of 1 June 2025, the sale and supply of single use (disposable) vapes became illegal across the UK. This ban applies to all disposable vapes (whether or not they contain nicotine) and includes both in-store and online sales.
Walsall Council’s Trading Standards team are reminding all local businesses and retailers of their legal obligation to comply with the ban. The ban aims to protect public health, by addressing the rise in youth vaping, protecting the environment, reducing fire and safety risks and limiting access to these products by children. Reusable vapes, which have to be refillable, rechargeable and have a replaceable coil, can continue to be sold or supplied.
“ This ban is vital to protect public health, particularly the rise in youth vaping and our local environment from the harmful waste generated by disposable vapes. We have been working with retailers to ensure they understand their responsibilities and have sufficient time to clear existing stock before the 1 June deadline. “
Councillor Kerry Murphy, Portfolio Holder for Safer Communities
Walsall Council
Residents are encouraged to support enforcement efforts. Businesses still selling or supplying disposable vapes should be reported to Trading Standards by calling 0808 223 1133 or emailing tradingstandards@walsall.gov.uk.
Any business found to be selling disposable vapes will be subject to a stop or penalty notice. Repeated offences may result in an unlimited fine or a prison sentence of up to two years. Trading Standards will also seize any single use vapes and retailers may be liable for paying any costs of disposing of seized stock.
In line with the council’s commitment to protecting public health and working towards a smoke-free generation, Walsall Council Public Health is continuing to encourage residents to seek support to quit smoking. This includes the offer of nicotine replacement therapy and expert support, as well as a ‘swap to stop’ offer where residents can switch from cigarettes to using regulated, refillable vapes as a quitting aid.
“ Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and there are a range of different ways that people can be supported.
Vaping, while not risk-free, can be an effective tool to help people quit smoking when combined with expert support. Regulated vapes and nicotine replacement products, such as patches and gum, offer a much safer way to get nicotine without inhaling tobacco smoke. However, those who have never smoked and anyone under 18 should not start vaping.
I would encourage you to seek support from our local services to help you quit for good. “