More Dakota County stores that sell tobacco last year passed compliance checks on underage sales. There were 276 tobacco compliance checks in the county in 2023 and 18 violations. Countywide compliance was 93 percent, up from 91 percent in 2022. It was the fourth-straight year of improved compliance.
While tobacco sale compliance improved last year, there was a slight decrease in alcohol sale compliance. There were 461 alcohol checks in 2023 and 35 violations for a 92-percent compliance. That was down from 94 percent in 2022. Dakota County is continuing education with retailers this year to address the increase in alcohol violations.
The Dakota County Sheriff's Office checks businesses in Inver Grove Heights and rural areas of the county. Police departments of Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Hastings, Lakeville, Mendota Heights, Rosemount, South St. Paul and West St. Paul also check compliance. Businesses that fail a compliance check may receive a citation as well as education on liquor and tobacco law compliance. The Sheriff's Office provides resources to businesses during compliance checks, including information sheets, display signs and reminders to workers about checking IDs.
Also, Dakota County Public Health encourages retailers to have written policies for employees about their legal responsibilities when serving or selling alcohol and supports regular staff training. Compliance checks can help reduce youth alcohol and tobacco use.
