The sale of cigarette lighter refills

On October 1 1999 the law relating to the sale of refills for cigarette lighters changed. This leaflet is designed to advise you about how the changes will affect you.

What goods does this law cover?

It affects any cigarette lighter refill canister that contains butane or any other substance with butane as a constituent part.

What is the new law called?

The Cigarette Lighter Refill (Safety) Regulations 1999.

What does the new law say?

It says that you must not sell the goods mentioned above to anyone under the age of eighteen. You no longer have to suspect that they are going to use the goods for the purposes of intoxication for the age restriction to apply.

What do you need to do?

You need to ensure that everyone working in your business knows about the change in the law and what to do if they suspect that a person is under 18.

If you are suspicious that a person is under 18, you should ask for some proof of their age such as a proof of age card with their date of birth and photograph on it. Examples of such cards include "Validate" and "Citizen Card", but there may be other suitable alternatives. Other valid proof of their age could be their passport or one of the new style driving licences with their photograph and date of birth on.

If they cannot prove their age and you are still suspicious, do not sell.

What happens if you or your employee sells to someone under the age of 18?

Selling to a person under the age of 18 would lead to you committing a criminal offence for which you and/or your employee could be prosecuted. If found guilty, you could be fined up to £5000 or imprisoned for up to six months, or you could receive both penalties.

Please note that this information is for guidance only and is not a full interpretation of the law which only a court of law can give.

This page was last updated on 15 December 2011