Downey seeks to limit new tobacco retailers from opening near children

DOWNEY — Downey’s Planning Commission on Wednesday voted to put a buffer between tobacco retailers and areas where minors regularly congregate.

The proposed code amendment - which still requires confirmation from the City Council — restricts new businesses whose primary purpose (50% or more of gross sales) is the sale of tobacco and tobacco products (including vape and vape related products) from opening within 1,000 feet of parks, licensed day care centers, and schools, measured from the tenant space of the store to the property line of the protected location.

The ordinance is not meant to target gas stations, liquor stores, convenience markets, grocery stores, etc. Existing tobacco retailers will be grandfathered in and not be subject to the new regulations.

There are currently 16 such retailers in the city of Downey, over half of which do not meet the 1000-foot separation requirement. These businesses would be allowed to expand and change ownership, however would lose their grandfather status if they move or cease operations for 180 days.

The move comes initially at the request of the city council, who discussed the matter at their March 12 meeting earlier this year.