Tobacco Compliance Hearings - 10.23.2026

The City of Fargo held tobacco compliance hearings on October 23, 2026. In the first case, a manager representing Sema Middle Eastern Market acknowledged that a clerk sold a tobacco product to a person under 21 without checking identification. The hearing officer found a first-offense violation and imposed a $500 fine and 12 months’ probation; the representative said the business had been sold and was directed to contact Public Health about payment arrangements. Written findings and an order were to follow.

In a second case, the hearing officer found a first-offense violation involving Bottleb Barn Liquors after a person under 21 was provided a tobacco product. Written findings and an order were to be issued, but the transcript does not state the penalty. No public comment was offered. No procurement activity was identified.