Can You Buy Vapes in Chicago In 2025

Yes, you can buy vapes in Chicago, but with strict regulations limiting your options. Since September 2020, the Chicago Flavor Ban prohibits the sale of flavored nicotine vape products, except for tobacco flavors. Additionally, Illinois state law restricts vape sales to individuals 21 and older. While vapes are available in smoke shops and select convenience stores, high taxation and local bans can affect availability.

This guide covers everything you need to know about buying vapes in Chicago, including the best smoke shops on each side of the city.

Vape Laws in Chicago and Illinois

• Age Restriction: Since July 1, 2019, Illinois prohibits the sale of tobacco and vape products to anyone under 21.
• Flavored Vape Ban: Since September 2020, Chicago bans flavored nicotine vapes, allowing only tobacco-flavored ones. However, nicotine-free flavored vapes are still legal.
• Cook County Restrictions: As of July 2023, Cook County prohibits flavored liquid nicotine sales in unincorporated areas.
• Indoor Vaping Ban: E-cigarettes are covered under Illinois’ Smoke-Free Act, banning their use in public places and within 15 feet of entrances.
• High Taxes: Chicago imposes a $1.50 per container and $1.20 per mL tax on liquid nicotine, on top of state taxes.

These restrictions have led many vape users to seek nicotine-free alternatives or mod systems to work around flavor bans.

But Why Tho?

Flavored vapes are illegal in Chicago due to concerns about youth vaping and public health risks. The Chicago City Council passed the flavored vape ban in September 2020, prohibiting the sale of flavored nicotine vaping products (except tobacco flavor). 

Here’s why:

1. Preventing Youth Vaping

• Flavored e-cigarettes, particularly sweet and fruity flavors, have been shown to attract younger users.
• Data from the CDC and FDA indicate that flavored vapes are a significant driver of e-cigarette use among teens.
• The ban aims to reduce nicotine addiction among minors.

2. Public Health Concerns

• Vaping products often contain harmful chemicals such as diacetyl, volatile organic compounds, and heavy metals.
• The rise in vaping-related lung injuries (EVALI) was a major factor in implementing stricter regulations.

3. Alignment with Federal and State Policies

• In 2020, the FDA restricted flavored pod-based e-cigarettes (except for tobacco and menthol).
• Illinois also enforces strict tobacco control laws, and Cook County recently banned flavored liquid nicotine in unincorporated areas.

4. Combatting Illegal Sales

• Officials believe that banning flavors reduces the availability of black-market vape products, which may contain dangerous additives.

While flavored nicotine vapes are banned, nicotine-free flavored vapes are still legal, providing an alternative for those who enjoy flavored vaping products.

Best Vape Shops in Chicago by Location

Southside Chicago

#1 Burner’s Smoke Shop (Best Overall Southside Shop)

• Address: 7030 S Harlem Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455
• Phone: (708) 929-4972
• Rating: ⭐ 4.9 (90 reviews)
• Why It’s #1: Known for excellent customer service and a wide selection of tobacco-flavored vapes and nicotine-free alternatives.

Northside Chicago

Lincoln Park Smoke and Vape

• Address: 2228 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
• Phone: (773) 697-4127
• Rating: ⭐ 4.9 (326 reviews)
• Why Visit: Popular among college students and professionals for convenient access and premium vape mods.

Westside Chicago

Sweet Tooth Smoke Shop

• Address: 2030 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
• Phone: (773) 276-9211
• Rating: ⭐ 4.5 (68 reviews)
• Why Visit: Survived enforcement actions and remains a top spot for legal vape products and accessories.

Downtown/Loop Area

Iwan Ries & Co (Oldest Tobacco Shop in Chicago)

• Address: 19 S Wabash Ave, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60603
• Phone: (312) 372-1306
• Rating: ⭐ 4.8 (550 reviews)
• Why Visit: A historic shop with premium tobacco-flavored vapes and cigars.

Why Choose Burner’s Smoke Shop?

While you can buy vapes in Chicago, strict regulations have limited options. The best way to ensure a smooth experience is by visiting a trusted smoke shop like Burner’s Smoke Shop, which stays compliant while offering top-quality products.

Looking for the best vape shop near you? Stop by Burner’s Smoke Shop for premium vape selections and expert advice!

At Burner’s Smoke Shop, we understand how difficult it is to find quality vape products under Chicago’s strict laws. That’s why we offer:

• A wide selection of tobacco-flavored vapes
• Nicotine-free flavored vapes for legal alternatives
• Knowledgeable staff to guide you on the best options

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned vaper, Burner’s Smoke Shop is your go-to destination for vapes in Southside Chicago. Visit us today!