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Commission approves tobacco shop at Gravois Bluffs with no-flashing-sign restriction
Summary
Planning commission voted to allow Chasing Clouds Vape Shop LLC to open a tobacco shop at 98 Gravois Bluff Circle Drive, Suite F, with conditions including no flashing signs, prohibition on hemp products, and standard permits.
The Fenton Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 2 approved a special-use permit for Chasing Clouds Vape Shop LLC to operate a tobacco shop at 98 Gravois Bluff Circle Drive, Suite F in the Gravois Bluffs West development, subject to conditions intended to limit youth exposure.
Amy, a community development staff member, told the commission the vacant tenant space was formerly Cricket Wireless and that the use fits the zoning definition of a tobacco shop because it primarily engages in the sale of smoking devices, vapor products and related accessories for off-site consumption. The permit explicitly excludes marijuana dispensaries and the sale of hemp-derived products, which are regulated separately under city code.
Petitioner Ibrahim Mohammed described the expected inventory as vape products, tobacco products, vaping accessories and glass smoking accessories. He said planned hours are roughly 8 a.m. opening and a 9 p.m. closing on weekdays, with 10 p.m. closing some weekends.
During discussion, Vice Chairperson Cheryl and other commissioners raised concerns about locating a tobacco shop near family-oriented businesses; Chairperson Yeoman said that public health, safety and general welfare considerations factor into the commission’s judgment. Bill Applebaum, representing property owner GJ Gruey, said the shopping center has stringent sign controls and that landlord review will limit signage options.
The commission approved the permit with these conditions read into the record: the SUP applies solely to Chasing Clouds Vape Shop LLC at Suite F as shown on plans dated July 24, 2025; no sale of products containing hemp or hemp-derived compounds; municipal zoning approval and St. Louis County building permits required for interior remodel or signage; separate occupancy permit required; compliance with all City of Fenton codes and ordinances; and no flashing signs that would attract minors. Chairperson Yeoman moved for approval and the motion passed 9–1 with Yeoman voting nay and the remaining commissioners voting aye.
The petitioner must now secure required building and occupancy permits and comply with the signage and product restrictions in the conditions.
