There are laws that restrict the sale of certain products and services to underage people. We offer advice and support to businesses in Devon, Somerset and Torbay to help them prevent underage sales.
The regulations around selling age restricted products can be complex so if you are in any doubt please contact us.
Businesses that are found illegally selling or supplying certain age restricted products can be prosecuted and may also lose their licence to sell certain products.
What products are age restricted?
This table shows which products are age restricted in the UK and how old the person has to be to buy them.
| Age restricted product | Legal age to buy |
| Alcohol | 18 |
| Cigarettes and tobacco products | 18 |
| Fireworks | 18 |
| Knives, blades and axes (not including folding knives with blades under 3 inches long) | 18 |
| Solvents and lighter refills | 18 |
| Lottery tickets and scratch cards | 16 |
| Petrol | 16 |
| Spray paints | 16 |
| Video/DVD/games | As shown on certificate e.g. 12,15,18 |
The guides available below have more information, including key legislation, about age restricted products.
Free online training package
We are able to offer businesses one year’s free access to the Trading Standards South West No Proof of Age – No Sale online toolkit. This training package covers all age restricted products and gives clear guidance to businesses. It is normally only available by annual subscription, however, businesses in Devon, Somerset and Torbay can contact us for 12 months’ free access. Find out more about the toolkit.
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