Fresno Council Proposes Smoke Shop Regulation Ordinance

The Fresno City Council has rejected a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating smoke shops, after nearly two years of planning and public debate. The ordinance, authored by Councilmembers Miguel Arias, Annalisa Perea, and Nelson Esparza, sought to address illegal activities and underage tobacco sales linked to smoke shops, which have proliferated in the city. Provisions included limiting the number of smoke shops to 49, requiring conditional use permits, and implementing stricter fines and operational hours. The proposal faced opposition over concerns about its 'heavy-handed' approach and the impact on existing businesses within 1,000 feet of sensitive areas like schools. Despite the rejection, there is potential for a revised ordinance to be considered in the future. The ordinance had the support of neighborhood groups and local organizations, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to managing the city's smoke shops.