2 October 2025
By Matt McFarland and Zoe Strothers – Eyewitness News
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WFSB) – A new law in New Haven aims to keep vapes, e-cigs and other tobacco products away from children.
There are roughly 190 retailers in New Haven that sell smoking and vaping products. Not only do they need to have a state license, now they also need a city license.
There are also new regulations when it comes to advertising signs and product placement.
“As a smoker and a vaper, kids should not be doing it,” said Andrew Strong, New Haven. “I’ve had effects from it. When I was younger, I got hooked on the colorful vapes. That got me hooked smoking cigarettes.”
A new law in New Haven is trying to prevent a new generation from getting addicted.
Elm City retailers are now required to get a license from New Haven’s Health Department, along with annual inspections to make sure they’re not selling illegal cannabis.
“The health department can fine for the first violation $150, the second violation within a 36-month period is $500, and a 3rd violation is $1,000 and revoke a license, meaning that business can no longer sell smoke-related products,” said Mayor Justin Elicker (D), New Haven.
So far, the city says they’ve got 92% compliance with its new license. Those without a new license will be getting a visit from the health department, with the product going away until they’re on board.
“Some retailers I’ve visited are saying, ‘Why are you having fines?’ The answer is easy: just obey the law and you won’t get fined. It’s not rocket science,” said Alder Richard Furlow (D), New Haven.
In addition to the licensing, stores are no longer allowed to have product in their windows, and there are new advertising rules.
“Basically, nobody can have color advertising, brand names, things like that, logos, and such,” said Brian Wnek, Environmental Health Program Director.
This new law goes hand in hand with another that limits where smoke shops can be.
New smoke shops can’t open within 1,000 feet of a school, park, house of worship, or within 3,000 feet on an existing retailer.
“Doing things like this, I think, are real important for keeping our children safe, making sure these stores are adhering to our regulations. It starts with not selling cigarettes properly, but then it ends with people hanging out in front of store, shootings, and other things,” said Chief Karl Jacobson, New Haven Police Department.
While the Health Department will conduct yearly unannounced visits to each of the 190 stores, they stress the community can play a part too. If you notice violations or illegal sales, like cannabis, you can contact them, police, or make a report HERE.