BOONTON — The Boonton Town Council has introduced a new ordinance aimed at regulating businesses that sell electronic smoking devices and products containing psychoactive substances, including certain vape products and hemp-derived items. The measure is intended to address growing public health concerns related to the sale of these products and the lack of oversight in some retail establishments.
Town officials say the ordinance would establish a licensing and regulatory framework for businesses that sell electronic smoking devices, vapor products, liquid nicotine, and other related items. Under the proposal, any retailer operating as a “Retail Electronic Smoking Device and Psychoactive Substance Establishment” would be required to obtain a license from the Boonton Health Department before conducting business.
The ordinance outlines several operational requirements designed to protect public health and limit access to these products by minors. Among the provisions are strict age restrictions, requiring retailers to verify that customers are at least 21 years old before purchasing such products. Businesses would also be prohibited from allowing individuals under the age of 21 to enter certain establishments unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
In addition, the ordinance would restrict where these types of businesses can operate within the town. New establishments would not be permitted within 1,000 feet of schools, recreational facilities, houses of worship, special-needs schools, or other similar retailers. Officials say the goal is to limit the concentration of these businesses and reduce youth exposure.
The proposed regulations also address the sale of products containing psychoactive substances, including those derived from cannabis or hemp, such as certain THC or CBD products. Businesses would only be allowed to sell products that comply with state and federal law and that are obtained from authorized sources. The ordinance also prohibits flavored vapor products and the sale of items packaged in ways that may appeal to children.
Retailers would be subject to inspections by the Health Department and local police to ensure compliance with the ordinance. Violations could result in fines, license suspension, or revocation. The ordinance also establishes penalties beginning at $1,000 for a first offense, with higher fines for repeat violations.
Town officials say the purpose of the ordinance is to provide stronger oversight of retailers and ensure that products being sold in the community are legal and safe for consumers.
The Boonton Town Council approved the ordinance on first reading at its March 2, 2026 meeting. A public hearing and final vote on the ordinance are scheduled for Monday, March 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Boonton Town Hall, located at 100 Washington Street. Residents and business owners will have an opportunity to comment before the council considers final adoption.
