Sherburne County has adopted an updated Tobacco Ordinance that will take effect on July 1, 2026. 

These updates to local tobacco regulations ensure alignment with Minnesota state law while incorporating important community health protections. By reducing youth access and exposure to commercial tobacco and nicotine products, these provisions promote a healthier environment for Sherburne County residents and aim to improve long-term health outcomes.

This ordinance applies to all tobacco retailers licensed through the county, including those in the townships and in the cities of Baldwin and Zimmerman.

Key provisions include: 

• Establishing 18 as the minimum age for individuals selling tobacco;

• Restricting sales of flavored vaping products to licensed tobacco shops only; 

• Restricting all tobacco and vape product sampling;

• Adding a 500-foot minimum distance requirement between new tobacco shops and schools;

• Requiring annual retailer education for all licensed tobacco retailers;

• Updating retailer penalties for stores that violate state and local tobacco laws; 

• Updating local language to align with state tobacco laws.

“These changes strengthen youth protections while supporting responsible business practices,” said Nicole Ruhoff, Public Health Manager. “We appreciate the support of the Sherburne County Board and our community partners in making these updates possible.”

A summary of the changes is available at https://www.co.sherburne.mn.us/489/Tobacco-Free-Living. Both the current and newly adopted ordinances are available on the County website at https://www.co.sherburne.mn.us/651/County-Ordinances.