The City of El Cajon Planning Commission is considering significant changes to retail display regulations for smoke shops, potentially impacting local businesses and community dynamics. During a recent meeting, officials discussed three options for increasing the maximum retail display area for tobacco products, currently capped at 16 cubic feet. The proposals include raising this limit to 32 cubic feet or shifting to a percentage-based display area, similar to regulations for alcohol sales.

The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by existing smoke shops, many of which are classified as legal nonconforming due to their proximity to residential areas. These shops, established before stricter zoning laws were enacted, are unable to relocate or expand under current regulations. The proposed changes aim to allow these businesses to move to locations that are more compliant with zoning laws, provided they maintain or increase their distance from sensitive uses like residential properties.

Staff emphasized that any relocation would still require a conditional use permit, ensuring that community standards are upheld. The intent behind these changes is to support local businesses while addressing community concerns about their locations.

As the Planning Commission prepares to gather public feedback on these proposals, the outcome could reshape the landscape for smoke shops in El Cajon, balancing business interests with community safety and zoning integrity.