New licencing requirements coming Nov. 30 for Ottawa vape businesses [Video]

Ottawa retailers that sell vaping products will face new licencing requirements this fall, as the city looks to crack down on the sale of vapour products to minors.

The emergency and protective services committee approved a new licence for retailers that sell vapour products on Thursday to “ensure public health and safety, as well as consumer protection.” The new licencing requirements still require council’s approval on Oct. 30.

The number of specialty-vape stores operating in Ottawa has increased from 19 in 2019 to 71 stores as of July 2024, while over 300 licenced tobacco vendors are also known to sell vapour products in the capital.  While tobacco vendors are required to obtain a licence from the city, businesses that sell vaping products do not require a licence.

The owner of Clear Sky Vapes warned new licencing requirements will not stop young people from accessing vaping products.

“Youth will experiment and …