Newport News, Virginia, USA, has passed new regulations requiring new e-cigarette shops to be approximately 610 meters away from schools

Key points:

·Scope of Application: The new regulations only apply to newly opened e-cigarette shops in Newport News, Virginia, USA. Existing stores are not affected; however, if a store has been closed for two years or more and reopens, it must comply with the regulations. 

·Key Restrictions: New stores must be at least 2000 feet (about 610 meters) away from schools and daycare centers, and can only operate in general commercial zones. They are only allowed to operate between 9:00 am and 9:00 pm. 

·Progression Process: The revision of the regulations has been ongoing for several months, during which time public feedback and recommendations from the planning committee were taken into account.

According to a report from 13news now on September 24, 2025, the city council of Newport News, Virginia passed an amendment to zoning regulations on September 23. As a result, any new e-cigarette shop in the city will be required to comply with the new rules.

Mayor Phillip Jones stated, "This ordinance is intended to protect our children and families, not punish responsible businesses. We have listened to residents' concerns, and this measure ensures that new e-cigarette stores will meet community-led strict standards.

The revision of regulations to standardize the processes of e-cigarette shops has been ongoing for several months, during which public feedback and suggestions from the planning committee have been incorporated.

The new regulation defines e-cigarette stores as merchants whose retail inventory, display space, or sales revenue is made up of 20% or more of e-cigarettes, e-cigarette products, or related accessories. This 20% threshold has been lowered from the originally proposed 50%.

E-cigarette shops currently in operation can continue to operate as usual. However, any shop that has been closed for two years or more must comply with the new regulations when reopening.

The new regulations specifically include the following content:

·The shop must be located at least 2000 feet (approximately 610 meters) from schools and childcare centers; 

·The shop is only permitted to operate within "general commercial" zones; 

·The shop's operating hours are restricted to 9 am to 9 pm; 

·The shop cannot provide curb-side services; 

·The shop cannot use frosted glass or mirrored glass.