If you’ve heard rumors that North Carolina is “banning vaping,” you’re only getting part of the story. The state has passed Session Law 2024-31—often called the PMTA Registry rule. It doesn’t outlaw vaping, but it limits which products retailers can stock and ship to North Carolina addresses. Here’s the plain-language rundown so you know what changes on May 1 2025 and how Asheville Vapor is responding.

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What is the PMTA Registry?

• PMTA = Premarket Tobacco Product Application. Any nicotine vapor product (bottle, pod, or disposable) that wants to remain on the U.S. market must file one with the FDA.
• North Carolina’s registry is a state-run directory of products that already have a PMTA filed, accepted, or under court review. Manufacturers must pay a certification fee and list every SKU they intend to sell here.
• After May 1 2025 North Carolina shops (and websites shipping to NC addresses) may sell only items on that list. Anything unlisted becomes contraband for retail sale after a 60-day grace period.

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How does this affect disposables?

• A disposable can be listed—if its maker files a PMTA and pays the state fee.
• Most flavored disposables never filed a PMTA, so they likely won’t appear on North Carolina’s directory.
• Expect a tighter selection of disposables (mostly tobacco or menthol flavors) starting summer 2025.

Tip: Check the state’s live “Vapor Product Directory” before you shop. If the SKU isn’t there, retailers must stop selling it after July 1 2025.

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What is and is not affected

Still available after May 1, 2025

• Zero-nicotine e-liquids (no PMTA needed).
• Czar™ Nicotine Tubes / other nicotine shots sold in separate packaging.
• Hardware without nicotine — refillable pod systems, mods, tanks, coils, chargers, etc.
• Any bottled or disposable product that does appear on the new NC registry.

Still off-limits (unchanged)

• Sales to anyone under 21 (federal Tobacco 21 law).
• Flavored, closed-pod cartridges already barred by the FDA (e.g., fruit-flavored Juul-style pods).
• Products that fail to appear on the NC registry after the 60-day sell-through window ends (July 1 2025).

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Key dates

• July 8 2024 – Governor Cooper signs the bill
• Q1 2025 – State releases the first “allowable products” list
• May 1 2025 – Registry rule takes effect; 60-day sell-through starts
• July 1 2025 – Any unlisted product becomes illegal to sell in NC

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How Asheville Vapor is preparing

1. Registry tracking – We’re working with every brand we carry to confirm their SKUs are submitted to the state.
2. Expanded zero-nic options – We’re boosting our 0 mg lineup plus separate nicotine tubes you can mix at home.
3. Alternative solutions – We’re curating refillable pod systems and premium nicotine-salt e-liquids that deliver the same satisfaction as disposables but remain fully compliant. Our staff can match you with the right device-and-salt combo in minutes.
4. Real-time updates – We’ll publish an “Approved Products” page and send email alerts as the directory changes.
5. In-store guidance – Our team will help you find compliant substitutes if your go-to device doesn’t make the list.

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What you should do

• Stock up wisely – If you love a specific flavored disposable, grab what you need before May (note the 60-day sell-through window).
• Explore refillable alternatives – Ask us about refillable pod kits paired with smooth nicotine-salt e-liquids—an easy, cost-effective upgrade that solves disposable restrictions.
• Stay informed – Join our newsletter or check in-store; we’ll post the latest state directory links.

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Have questions?

We’re here to help. Visit any Asheville Vapor location, call us, or email info@ashevillevapor.com. We’ll walk you through the new rules, show you compliant alternatives, and ensure you keep enjoying the flavors you love—legally.

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Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulations can change; always check official state resources for the latest requirements.