Newport News Considering Vape Shop Regulations
New rules will be considered by Planning Commission and City Council in September
Zoning changes meant to regulate vape shops are set for review by the Newport News Planning Commission on September 3. The potential changes would establish a formal definition of vape shops in the city code and add new rules for their operation. The issue is scheduled to be decided by the City Council later next month after the Planning Commission offers their input.
Under the proposals, vape shops would be defined as businesses where at least 50 percent of sales or inventory comes from e-cigarette products and related items. The rules would:
Prohibit vape shops from opening within 2,000 feet of schools and daycares.
Limit them to designated commercial districts (C1 and C2).
Require clear, see-through windows and prohibit mirrored or tinted storefronts.
Ban drive-through service.
Enforce compliance with city signage standards to curb oversized or flashy advertising.
City planning staff assert that the measures are intended to respond to concerns about youth access, clustering of vape shops in certain corridors, and the visibility of vape products in the community.
“The standards don’t prohibit vape shops outright,” the staff report stated, “but direct placement to appropriate areas while reducing their presence near youth-serving uses.”
City officials noted a rise in the number of vape shops in recent years, which has drawn complaints from residents and community groups. While state law already prohibits sales to those under 21, local leaders say zoning rules are needed to manage the concentration and visibility of these businesses.
Currently, the city’s zoning ordinance does not distinguish vape shops from general retail uses, leaving them free to operate in areas not originally intended for such concentrated activity.
Other Hampton Roads localities have also moved to tighten oversight of vape shops. In Williamsburg, for example, officials adopted zoning rules in 2022 and continue to evaluate additional measures after some businesses sought to sidestep regulations.
The Newport News Planning Commission will hold its hearing on September 3. Recommendations will then move to City Council, which is scheduled to consider the ordinances on September 23. If approved, the new regulations would take effect immediately.
Previous action by the Newport News Planning Commission
The Newport News Planning Commission convened on August 20, 2025, in City Council Chambers at City Hall. A quorum was present, and the agenda was adopted.
Special Exception Requests
824 31st Street: The Commission unanimously recommended approval of a request to construct a single-family dwelling on a lot with less than 50 feet of frontage. Commissioners reviewed design details, including building materials, before voting 8–0 in favor.
1155 24th Street: The Commission also unanimously recommended approval of a similar special exception for a single-family dwelling on a small lot. Commissioners discussed lot constraints and building orientation, then voted 8–0 to support the request. Both applications will move forward to the Board of Zoning Appeals for final consideration.
Executive Secretary Report
Planning Director Sheila McAllister provided updates from the August 12 City Council meeting:
City Council approved the rezoning of the former Regal Cinemas property on Jefferson Avenue from C1 Retail Commercial to R8 High Density Multifamily, clearing the way for residential redevelopment.
Council also granted a conditional use permit for a motor vehicle repair and service facility at 9955 Jefferson Avenue.
Committee Report
The Regulations Committee reported it is reviewing possible modifications to regulations governing self-service ice vending machines. No action was taken at this meeting.
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