Wisconsin Imposes $1,000 Daily Fines on Unlisted Hemp Vapes Starting Sept. 1

The Wisconsin Department of Revenue will begin issuing fines of $1,000 per day for each unlisted hemp vaping device offered for sale starting September 1. This enforcement rollout applies state directory requirements to non-nicotine hemp products, escalating financial liabilities for non-compliant businesses across the state.

Certification Rules for the Electronic Vaping Directory

Under state law, electronic vaping devices containing hemp and zero nicotine must appear on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue’s Electronic Vaping Device Directory to be sold legally. While manufacturers were required to submit certifications by July 1 and unlisted sales were prohibited on July 2, financial forfeitures take effect on September 1.

To qualify for listing, manufacturers must satisfy specific statutory criteria:

Lab Certification: Submit a Certificate of Analysis from an independent laboratory verifying the product contains no nicotine.
THC Thresholds: Prove delta-9 THC concentrations do not exceed 0.3% on a dry-weight basis, or the maximum level allowed under federal law up to 1%.
Annual Fee: Pay a $500 application fee per submitted device.

Broad Scope of Regulated Hardware and Liquids

Wisconsin’s regulatory framework extends beyond standard disposable devices and pre-filled cartridges. The statutory definition covers:

Rechargeable vape pens and closed-system units.
Specific components, hardware parts, and device accessories.
Liquids, concentrates, and distillates intended for vaporization and inhalation.

Beyond monetary penalties, state regulators and law enforcement are authorized to seize and destroy any non-compliant inventory found in wholesale or retail channels.

Legislative Background Under Act 15

The enforcement timeline was established under 2025 Wisconsin Act 15, which postponed penalties for hemp vapor products until September 1, 2026. Nicotine-containing vaping devices have already faced the same $1,000-per-day enforcement provisions since September 1, 2025.

The Department of Revenue updates its public registry nightly to provide an active record of compliant products for retailers and distributors.

Read more: Can You Smoke Hemp in Wisconsin Rentals? Legal Guide

Author
Recent Posts

Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.