San Antonio council approves ordinance to restrict vape and tobacco retailers near schools

The San Antonio City Council on May 8 voted to adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 35 of the Unified Development Code to require a buffer between new tobacco- and vaping-product retailers and schools, daycare centers and institutions of higher education.

Councilmember (sponsor) framed the ordinance as a public-health measure to reduce youth access and exposure to nicotine products. Staff described the proposal as creating a buffer zone for new retail locations (city presentation emphasized a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, with additional discussion of 300-foot and 1,000-foot distances in state proposals). Under the ordinance, existing retailers in the buffer would be grandfathered if they already operate the location; new stores would not be allowed to locate within the buffer without a special use approval.

Public testimony supported the buffer. Commenters included prevention specialists, recovery providers and health-care professionals who described youth vaping incidents in schools and the health risks of nicotine and vaping products. One public commenter who said he had personal experience with addiction described the role vape products played during his teenage years, while a pulmonologist described respiratory harms and urged treating these products like tobacco.

City staff told council there are currently roughly 225 vape/tobacco retailers in the city, and that about 36 percent of those locations are near schools. The ordinance adds definitions and requires publication as part of the code update; staff said zoning procedures and the Unified Development Code (UDC) process were followed and planning staff recommended approval.

Councilmembers praised Metro Health and local prevention partners for education and outreach and said the ordinance is one tool to reduce youth exposure. The motion to adopt the ordinance passed.