Health board passes vaping regulations

The Snohomish Health District's Board of Health passed a law restricting vaping in public places and youth access to vapor products last Tuesday, with rules taking effect on Dec. 10.

The newly passed ordinance prohibits vaping within 25 feet of an entryway, as well as indoor spaces like restaurants, bars, movie theaters and places of employment.

Retailers also will be required to obtain a permit to sell vapor products, and those businesses open to minors will be required to keep products behind a counter or in a locked display case, according to a health district news release. The ordinance also makes clear that selling vapor products to a minor is illegal, as is possession by a minor.

Retail outlets only selling vaporizers and vaping products may obtain a separate permit that would allow in-store sampling, provided the location has a separate ventilation system. Retailers have until Feb. 10 to submit for permits, and must have them in place by May 10.

Learn more about the new law at www.snohd.org/Healthy-Living/Smoke-Free-Living/Vaping-Vapor-Products. The site will be updated over the next several months.