TT-57 – Fire-safe cigarette certification requirements
Understand how to certify cigarette compliance before the July 1 deadline
Maryland requires cigarette manufacturers to certify that their products meet fire safety standards before selling in the state. This page explains how to submit certification, what records to keep, and what must be shared with wholesalers and retailers.
What you need to know
- Certification must be filed by July 1, 2008
- Use form COM-ATT-607 or an approved format
- Recertification is required every 3 years
- Copies must be shared with wholesalers and downstream sellers
Who This Applies To
Cigarette manufacturers
What Changed
- The fire safe cigarette law requires manufacturers to certify compliance
- A formal certification process and form is now required
- Additional documentation and distribution requirements apply
Requirements / Process / Rules
- Submit certification to the State Comptroller
- Use form COM-ATT-607 or an equivalent format
- You may submit using an adapted spreadsheet format
- File all certifications by July 1, 2008
- Certify that each cigarette brand meets fire safety standards
- Retain test reports for 3 years
- Renew certification every 3 years
Distribution Requirements
- Provide certification copies to Maryland wholesalers
- Provide package marking illustrations to wholesalers
Wholesalers must distribute this information to:
- Retailers
- Sub-wholesalers
- Vending machine operators
Tax Stamp Requirement
A new cigarette tax stamp takes effect July 1, 2008
All cigarettes stamped after June 30, 2008 must:
- Use the new stamp
- Be fire safe compliant
Previous Requirement
- Cigarettes stamped before July 1, 2008 could be non-compliant
- These may still be sold under a pass-through provision
What Is Now Allowed / Not Allowed
- Allowed
- Sale of previously stamped non-compliant cigarettes (pass-through)
- Not allowed
- Stamping or selling non-compliant cigarettes after July 1, 2008
- Failing to certify cigarette compliance
Effective Date
July 1, 2008
What This Means for Businesses
- You must submit certification before selling cigarettes in Maryland
- You must maintain testing records and renew certifications
- You must share required documents across the supply chain
- Failure to comply may result in significant penalties
Important Notes
- Certification forms may be available online through the Comptroller
- Detailed instructions are included with the certification form
- Penalties apply for non-compliance
Need Help?
- Contact the ATCC for compliance guidance: 443-300-6990
- Review official law details through the Maryland General Assembly