How Aurora Handles Tobacco & Vaping: A Practical Guide

Aurora maintains 198 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with tobacco & vaping. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Aurora falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Vape Retail Rules

Aurora requires retailers selling vape and e-cigarette products to obtain a city tobacco retail license, comply with state CRS 44-7-103.5 age verification, and limit advertising visible to minors.

Key details: City license: Required annually. Code chapter: Aurora Chapter 26. Self-service: Adult stores only. State law: CRS 44-7-103.5. Decoy checks: Multiple yearly.

Selling without a city license results in fines and immediate cease-and-desist orders. Failed compliance checks carry escalating fines from 250 to 5,000 dollars and potential license revocation.

Tobacco Age Restrictions

Aurora prohibits sale of tobacco, vape, and nicotine products to anyone under 21 under Colorado SB19-033 and CRS 44-7-103.5, the state Tobacco 21 law that preempts lower local age limits.

Key details: Minimum age: 21 years. State statute: CRS 44-7-103.5. ID check trigger: Appears under 30. Covered products: All tobacco and nicotine. First fine: 250 dollars.

Selling to a person under 21 carries fines starting at 250 dollars for a first offense, escalating to 1,000 dollars and possible tobacco license suspension or revocation for repeat violations.

This is one of the stricter rules in Aurora's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Aurora's tobacco & vaping rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Aurora is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Aurora's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.