Frequently Asked Questions

On November 18, 2020, the City Council adopted Ordinance Number 20-29R, which created a program to regulate and license tobacco retailers within the City of Escondido. The regulations, which include obtaining a TRL, become effective for tobacco retailers in 2021. Starting July 1, 2021, a TRL is required in order to sell any kind of tobacco products in the City. The TRL application, issuance, and annual renewal is separate from your regular annual business license.

Businesses that sell any tobacco products must have a Tobacco Retail License, in addition to their main City of Escondido business license. Applications are accepted on our online portal.

A recent survey showed that some Escondido businesses sell tobacco products to minors, including vaping devices and e-cigarettes, which is in violation of state law. The TRL program will help reduce the number of stores selling these products to minors. Tobacco retailers will be required to pay a licensing fee to cover the costs of administration and annual compliance checks. Compliance checks will review existing tobacco laws regulating underage sales, compliance with the STAKE Act, and a requirement that retailers refrain from selling drug paraphernalia.

The cost is $88 annually.

You will not be authorized to sell tobacco products in the City of Escondido.

Two business licenses. One business license for normal operations, and an additional license if tobacco is sold. Note: Each location will need its separate licenses.

The process will take approximately two weeks as the Police Departments will need to do an assessment after the application is submitted.

If your TRL is suspended, you will lose your tobacco retail license, but may stay open for non-tobacco related items under your normal business license.

Yes, in that it would require an annual renewal. However, while your normal City of Escondido business license fees may be based on gross receipts and other requirements, the TRL is a flat fee of $88. Note: Your Tobacco Retail License will be aligned with your existing City business license to ensure both are renewed concurrently every year through separate processes.