City Council Approves Zoning Amendment Defining Vape Shops and Regulating Locations

In a pivotal meeting held on September 3, 2025, the Newport News Planning Commission discussed a significant amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance aimed at regulating vape shops. As the city grapples with a growing number of these establishments, concerns have emerged regarding youth access, clustering, and the visibility of advertising.

The proposed amendment seeks to define a vape shop as a retail space where 50% or more of the inventory, display area, or sales revenue comes from e-cigarettes, vape devices, e-liquids, and related products. This clear definition is intended to fill existing gaps in the ordinance that currently treats vape shops like general retail stores, allowing them to proliferate in sensitive areas.

To address community concerns, the amendment includes several key regulations. It prohibits vape shops from being located within 2,000 feet of schools and daycares, aiming to reduce youth exposure to vaping products. Additionally, these shops will only be permitted in designated commercial zoning districts, and measures will be implemented to enhance monitoring, such as requiring clear window visibility and eliminating drive-through services. The regulations also aim to manage signage and curb excessive advertising, aligning with state requirements for tobacco and nicotine retail sales.

The commission reviewed and recommended the approval of this amendment, which is now set to be forwarded to the city council for adoption. During the meeting, questions arose regarding the implications for existing vape shops, with assurances given that those already in operation would be grandfathered in under the new regulations.

As Newport News navigates the complexities of modern retail and public health, this amendment represents a proactive step towards ensuring that the growth of vape shops aligns with community standards and safety. The outcome of the city council's decision will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in other municipalities.