SC: Richland County Proposes Vape Shop Buffer Zones Near Schools

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Richland County vape rules, vape shops near schools

Richland County Council is weighing a modernized non-smoking ordinance and strict new zoning rules to slow the rapid spread of vape shops near local schools. Led by Councilwoman Tyra Little, the proposal seeks to address growing public health concerns regarding marketing targeted at children, while still protecting established local businesses.

The proposed rules would align unincorporated parts of Richland County with neighboring Columbia and Forest Acres, both of which already restrict how close vape shops can be to each other, churches, and schools. Currently, 14 of the 49 active vape suppliers in unincorporated Richland County operate within 1,000 feet of a school.

Under the draft ordinance, the county would introduce several key regulatory updates:

  • New Licensing Process: Retailers selling vaping equipment and alternative nicotine products must obtain a specific county license.
  • Mandatory Inspections: Shops will be subject to county inspections and must display required warning signage.
  • Equal Workplace Restrictions: Vaping will be treated identically to traditional smoking, banning its use in places where smoking is already prohibited.

County staff emphasized that the draft ordinance is designed to regulate future growth rather than penalize existing merchants. Current vape shops will be grandfathered in, allowing them to continue operating under the new rules without facing relocation.

Matthew Ma
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