Retailers and suppliers in Northern Ireland, take note –  as of 29 July 2025, it is now an offence to supply, offer to supply, or possess for supply any single-use vape under the Single Use Vapes (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025.

 

In a further move, on 14 August 2025, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) issued an official direction mandating that all single-use vapes are to be treated as waste. Under this direction, any existing stock must now be:

• Delivered to a producer compliance scheme or authorised treatment facility for disposal; and
• Supported with written evidence of disposal, which must be provided to DAERA or an authorised officer.

 

Non-compliance could result in prosecution, with penalties of up to £5,000 or imprisonment.

Retailers and suppliers should act immediately to ensure full compliance with the new regulations to avoid enforcement action.

 

For legal guidance and advice on what waste legislation may apply to your business, please contact Maria O’Loan or another member of our Planning and Environment team.

While great care has been taken in the preparation of the content of this article, it does not purport to be a comprehensive statement of the relevant law and full professional advice should be taken before any action is taken in reliance on any item covered.