How to Buy Nicotine Pouches in California


Please be aware that we have temporarily suspended all sales in California.

Buying nicotine pouches in California is possible — but only under specific legal conditions. If you’re 21 or older, you can legally purchase unflavored or tobacco-flavored nicotine pouches, either in stores or online, as long as the product complies with California’s restrictions on flavored tobacco.


This guide explains how to legally buy nicotine pouches in California, what flavors are banned, where you can (and can’t) shop, and which product types are available to adult consumers. Whether you’re buying in-store or online, here’s what you need to know. 

Key Takeaways

  • Flavored nicotine pouches are banned for sale in California, including online. 
  • Adults aged 21+ can legally buy unflavored or tobacco-flavored nicotine pouches. 
  • Tobacco-inspired flavors are not considered “flavored” under state law if they contain no sweet, minty, or fruity additives. 
  • Online orders are permitted, but require age verification and an adult signature upon delivery. 
  • Northerner has paused all nicotine pouch sales to California until further notice

Understanding Nicotine Pouch Laws in California

California regulates nicotine pouches under the same laws that apply to flavored tobacco products. Senate Bill 793, passed in 2020 and upheld by Proposition 31, bans the sale of any tobacco or nicotine product with a characterizing flavor other than tobacco.


These laws apply to both in-store and online retailers shipping to California addresses. 

What's Banned?

The law defines a banned “flavor” as any perceivable taste or aroma outside of tobacco. This includes: 

  • Mint and menthol (e.g., wintergreen, peppermint, spearmint) 
  • Fruit (e.g., citrus, mango, berry) 
  • Coffee, dessert, or candy-style profiles 
  • Any nicotine pouch with added flavoring agents or sweeteners 

These products cannot be legally sold or shipped within California. 

What Nicotine Pouches are Available?

Although flavored pouches are banned, you can still legally buy unflavored or tobacco-flavored nicotine pouches in California if you are 21 or older. 

Why Tobacco-Inspired Flavors Are Exempt

Under California law, products described as “tobacco-flavored” are not considered flavored, as long as they do not contain sweet, minty, or fruity elements. These products aim to replicate the neutral, earthy characteristics of tobacco without the additives banned under the law.


To be compliant: 

  • The flavor must be limited to a tobacco-like profile 
  • The pouch must not contain menthol, fruit, sweeteners, or artificial enhancers 

This exemption ensures adult consumers still have access to legal, non-flavored nicotine pouch options that comply with state regulations. 

Can You Buy Nicotine Pouches Online in California?

Yes — online orders are allowed as long as the product is unflavored or tobacco-flavored and the retailer follows compliance protocols. 

Requirements for Online Orders

To legally buy nicotine pouches online in California: 

  • Retailers must identify your shipping address and filter available products accordingly 
  • You must complete age verification during checkout (21+ only) 
  • A valid adult signature is required upon delivery 
  • Some retailers may call to confirm the order before shipment 

Note: Northerner has currently paused all nicotine pouch shipments to California until further notice. Given recent updates in the California market, Northerner intends to resume shipping in the near future. 

Can You Bring Flavored Nicotine Pouches into California?

Yes — for personal use only. If you purchase flavored pouches out-of-state, you can bring them into California for your own use. However: 

  • It is illegal to sell, ship, or distribute flavored nicotine pouches within California 
  • Retailers may not fulfill flavored product orders to California addresses 

What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?

Retailers and individuals violating California’s flavored tobacco product laws may face: 

  • Fines  
  • Suspension or loss of business licenses 
  • Potential legal action from state authorities 

Retailers must comply with strict product labeling, age verification, and shipping rules to avoid these penalties. 

FAQs

  • No. Only flavored nicotine pouches are banned. You can still buy unflavored or tobacco-flavored pouches legally if you're 21+. 
  • Yes — if the product is compliant. Online sales require age verification and adult signature at delivery. 
  • Any perceivable taste or aroma other than tobacco — including mint, menthol, fruit, coffee, or sweet notes. 
  • Yes — for personal use only. Selling or distributing flavored pouches in California is illegal. 
  • Not currently. Northerner has paused all nicotine pouch sales to California customers while we monitor regulatory changes. Given recent updates, Northerner intends to resume shipping in the near future.