Council committee moves four tobacco-related ordinances forward to curb smoke shops and limit window signage

The Finance Committee approved four companion pieces of legislation aimed at regulating tobacco products, vaping and the recent proliferation of “smoke shops” in Cleveland.

The ordinances considered were: - Ordinance 186-2025: Amend local tobacco distribution code to align with state Tobacco 21 requirements. - Ordinance 187-2025: Create a tobacco retail licensing program requiring tobacco retailers (including smoke shops, convenience stores, cigar shops and grocery retailers that sell tobacco products) to obtain a local license; require inspections; and establish graduated civil penalties for violations. - Ordinance 188-2025: Zoning code amendment to define and regulate “smoke shops,” including a two‑mile separation buffer between smoke shops and a 500‑foot buffer from schools, parks, libraries, day cares and recreation centers; committee adopted emergency amendments to make zoning provisions effective immediately on mayoral signature. - Ordinance 189-2025: Limit window signage coverage to a maximum of 25% of any storefront’s window area to increase visibility for first responders and reduce secondary effects of storefronts with opaque window coverage;…