Naugatuck Sets New Rules For Vapes

NAUGATUCK, CT — Businesses that sell vape products in Naugatuck will be subject to a new local licensing system under an ordinance adopted by borough officials last week.

The Board of Mayor and Burgesses approved Ordinance No. 140 on Aug. 4. The borough posted the adopted measure Monday.

The ordinance requires a license from the Naugatuck police chief for any retailer that sells vape products. Its reach goes beyond businesses branded as smoke shops: the rule applies to any business that owns, operates or manages a location where vape products are sold.

Under the ordinance, vape products include devices that use a heating element, power source or other means to create vapor that may contain nicotine or cannabis.

Existing retailers must submit an initial license application by Sept. 1. There is no fee for those initial applications, and licenses issued this year would be valid through Dec. 31. License fees will begin for the period starting Jan. 1, 2027.

Applicants must provide business and ownership information, photos, fingerprints and criminal-conviction information. The police department will conduct background investigations, while zoning and building officials will review whether an establishment meets applicable requirements.

The ordinance also requires retailers to train employees on the law barring sales to people younger than 21. Clerks must check identification for anyone who appears to be under 30, and stores must post age-restriction signs.

Police and the Naugatuck Valley Health District may inspect retailers for compliance. A first violation can bring a $1,000-per-day fine for each day it continues. A second separate violation within 12 months can carry a $2,000-per-day fine and a six-month license suspension; a third within 24 months can result in revocation.

The ordinance says the borough adopted the rules in response to public-health, safety and youth-use concerns associated with vaping.

For more Connecticut news, follow Patch editor Jay Kenney.