Extension of Smoke Shop Moratorium in Lancaster

LANCASTER, CA — In response to growing concerns about illegal activity and public safety issues tied to smoke shops, the Lancaster City Council has moved decisively to tighten oversight of tobacco-related businesses. On October 28, the council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1144, establishing an interim 45‑day moratorium on the opening of new smoke shops and the expansion of existing ones.

City officials described the temporary halt as a necessary pause—an opportunity to step back, assess the rapid proliferation of smoke shops, and develop stronger regulatory tools. The goal was not only to curb unlawful practices but also to protect the health and safety of residents, particularly young people who are often targeted by illicit tobacco and vape products.

Moratorium Extension Process

City Attorney Allison Burns explained during the December 9 council meeting that state law limits an initial moratorium to 45 days. If additional time is needed to study the issue—as was the case in Lancaster—the council may extend the moratorium for up to 10 months and 15 days, bringing the total duration to one full year.

Following her presentation, the council unanimously approved a second urgency ordinance, extending the moratorium through October 1, 2026. This extension gives city staff and law enforcement the runway they need to analyze current conditions, explore regulatory gaps, and craft long-term solutions that can withstand legal scrutiny and effectively deter illegal activity.

Council members emphasized that the extension is not merely procedural—it reflects a commitment to addressing a problem that has escalated quickly and visibly across the community.

Current State of Tobacco Retailers and Enforcement Efforts

Lancaster currently has 196 active tobacco retailers, including approximately 76 smoke shops. While many operate legally, recent enforcement actions have revealed widespread violations among a significant number of these establishments.

In collaboration with state and county agencies, the Lancaster Police Department conducted inspections at 22 smoke shops over the past several weeks. According to a staff report prepared by Police Chief Rodrick Armalin and Senior Specialist Michael Katz, every single location inspected was found to be in possession of illegal products.

The confiscated items included:

• Unlicensed cannabis products

• Substances containing 7‑Hydroxymitragynine, a compound linked to six deaths in Los Angeles County

• Nitrous oxide

• Prohibited flavored tobacco products and vape devices

• Illegal weapons

The breadth of violations underscored what city officials described as a pattern of disregard for state and local laws—one that poses direct risks to public health and community safety.

Community Impact and Future Actions

The staff report warned that the rise in smoke shops operating outside the law is creating a cascade of problems: increased youth access to harmful substances, unsafe business environments, and unfair competition for retailers who follow the rules.

City leaders expressed concern that without stronger oversight, the situation could continue to deteriorate. The report recommended that the city pursue enhanced regulatory measures, including:

• More frequent inspections

• Stricter licensing requirements

• Stronger penalties for violations

• Clearer zoning and operational standards

The extended moratorium gives Lancaster the time needed to research these options thoroughly and craft a regulatory framework that protects residents while supporting legitimate businesses.

As the city continues its evaluation, officials emphasized that community input will play a key role. Residents, business owners, and local organizations are expected to be part of the conversation as Lancaster works toward a safer, more accountable landscape for tobacco and smoke shop operations.

---

SUBSCRIBE