Haverford Town Implements Measures to Control Tobacco and Vape Shops

According to a report from delcotimes on April 11th, after receiving approval on the second reading, the committee of Haverford, Pennsylvania passed a measure aimed at controlling the spread of e-cigarette and tobacco shops in the town.

The committee has decided to amend the zoning regulations, stipulating that the sale of tobacco products and paraphernalia must be limited to less than 20% of the retail space in convenience stores. Any establishment exceeding this proportion will be considered a tobacco shop, and can only operate in C-5 level shopping centers after obtaining approval. The three areas within the C-5 zone are the Llanerch Shopping Center, Manoa Shopping Center, and the shopping district surrounding Kohl's and Quarry Center. The 20% calculation is based on floor area and display area.

The committee stated that the changes in zoning will not affect existing stores.

After the public hearing held on March 4, commissioners clarified some provisions in the new regulation and approved it for first reading at the meeting on March 11. During the meeting, Chairman Larry Holmes stated that selling tobacco products to individuals under 21, selling individual cigarettes other than menthol, flavored cigarettes, or selling cigarettes in vending machines is illegal. Additionally, fines for retailers found in violation range from $250 for a first offense to over $1,000, and retailers convicted three times within two years may face imprisonment and license revocation. Furthermore, the regulation will restrict the sale of tobacco products and e-cigarettes within 1,000 feet of schools.

Members stated that if convenience stores attempt to convert into e-cigarette stores, the process may be suspended when applying for new permits for use and occupation. Only 20% of stores are allowed to sell tobacco, and exceeding this proportion would classify the establishment as a tobacco store.