North Yorkshire Steps Up Vape Crackdown & Theme Park Bans

North Yorkshire Council is advancing an updated enforcement framework to tackle illicit tobacco sales and underage vaping, proposing fixed penalty notices against rogue retailers under the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026. The municipal push coincides with stricter venue policies across the county, with regional attractions like Lightwater Valley warning visitors that unauthorized vaping will trigger immediate eviction.

Stricter Venue Rules at Lightwater Valley

At Lightwater Valley near Ripon, visitor regulations now restrict smoking and e-cigarette use entirely to designated zones. Vaping is prohibited in all general park spaces, including admission areas and ride queues.

Shane Margereson, founder of UK retailer Ecigone, noted that the park’s policy gives staff full authority “to refuse admission or to evict guests” who fail to comply. The operational rule mirrors a wider shift among private venues aiming to prevent youth exposure and limit unregulated vape use in crowded family spaces.

Council Targets Underage Sales and Rogue Traders

Alongside venue-level restrictions, local authorities are intensifying pressure on non-compliant businesses. While adult vaping remains legal in the UK, businesses have been barred from selling or supplying single-use vapes since June 2025. Furthermore, selling any nicotine or vape product to anyone under 18—or buying them on behalf of a minor—is illegal.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive will review the updated trading standards framework on October 27. The policy equips officers to respond faster to illicit sales, online scams, and retail violations by introducing fixed penalty notices alongside existing criminal prosecution powers.

Coun Richard Foster, the executive member responsible for trading standards, explained the council’s approach:

“By targeting those who deliberately flout the law and protecting consumers from harm, we are helping to create a level playing field for responsible businesses and safeguarding some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.”

The council’s revised strategy focuses resources on high-risk retail areas, prioritizing operations against shops that supply tobacco or e-cigarettes to minors, while supporting legitimate businesses that adhere to UK product standards.

News source: New crackdown on vaping and illegal tobacco in North Yorkshire on its way amid rising concern

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.