Aurora to require new license for tobacco and age-restricted psychoactive products
AURORA, Colo. - The city of Aurora will soon require retailers who sell tobacco and certain age-restricted products to get a new license.
The Aurora City Council approved Ordinance 2026-05 on March 9, 2026, which will amend the city code to establish a “tobacco, kratom, and age-restricted hemp license.”
State law already prohibits the sale of tobacco, kratom and certain hemp products to individuals under 21 years old. Despite that law and twice-annual state compliance checks, data from the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey finds that youth still have access to products.
Under this ordinance, the city will also conduct two compliance checks each year. Other requirements include distances between retailers, age requirements for employees and more. The ordinance does not include a flavor ban.
“The City of Aurora is stepping up to do more to protect the health of our young residents,” Aurora City Council Member and co-sponsor of the ordinance Stephanie Hancock said. “The goal is to steer teens away from tobacco addiction and discourage any business from facilitating that addiction. I am proud to sponsor an ordinance that makes this effort a priority across our city.”
All retailers in the city must apply for the new license, which will cost $500 and require annual renewal. Existing businesses will be exempt from the distance requirements.
Any new business seeking this licensure must be:
- 1,500 feet from schools.
- 500 feet between any existing tobacco retailer.
- 2,000 feet between vape stores.
- 2 miles between hookah lounges.
If a retailer fails a compliance check, the following penalty structure shall apply:
- (1) For a first violation, the licensing authority shall issue a fine in the amount of $1,000;
- (2) For a second violation within 36 months, the licensing authority shall issue a fine in the amount of $2,000 and suspend the license for 7 days;
- (3) For a third violation within 36 months, the licensing authority shall issue a fine in the amount of $2,650 and suspend the license for 21 days OR revocation of the license; and
- (4) For a fourth violation within 36 months, the licensing authority shall permanently revoke the license.
The city of Aurora will work closely with local businesses, county health departments and other partners to ensure the community is aware of the ordinance and its provisions. Additional information, including retailer guidance, applications and compliance periods will be released in the months to come.