Redondo Beach Cracks Down On Illegal Sales At Smoke Shops

REDONDO BEACH, CA — City officials have launched a crackdown on smoke shops accused of illegally selling flavored tobacco products, cannabis-related items and products marketed toward minors.

The enforcement effort included recent inspections at several smoke shops in Redondo Beach, officials said Thursday. One inspection resulted in the permanent closure of a smoke shop.

Another business received a 120-day suspension of its business license following administrative hearings, a court case and a legal settlement with the city.

As part of the settlement, the business was ordered to pay $100,000 in sanctions to the city and surrender all illegal products seized during the investigation. Before reopening, the shop must also comply with new regulations under Redondo Beach’s smoke shop ordinance, which took effect Jan. 1.

Police Chief Steve Sprengel said businesses violating the law will face consequences.

“We are dedicated to keeping our neighborhoods and youth safe,” Sprengel said in a statement. “Businesses that profit from selling illegal products to our kids will be held accountable.”

Under California law, flavored tobacco products are prohibited. Businesses caught violating tobacco laws could lose their tobacco retail permits or business licenses and face additional fines and penalties, officials said.

The city said it plans to continue conducting random inspections of smoke shops and will provide educational materials to business owners about compliance requirements.

Residents can report suspected illegal tobacco or vape sales to the Redondo Beach Police Department or the city’s Code Enforcement Division.

The enforcement effort involves the Redondo Beach Police Department, Code Enforcement officers and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.