Norwalk, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Tobacco Retail License (2026)

09. 210 process, and the Planning Commission must find, among other things, that the use is compatible with surrounding uses, does not harm public health, safety or welfare, and complies with all state and local laws and permit requirements. 060; the property owner must give written authorization for the use; the shop must hold a valid California Cigarette and Tobacco Products Retailer's License issued by the State Board of Equalization and display it prominently; and an on-site manager at least 21 years old must be present.

No one younger than 18, or the state-set minimum age if higher, may sell, display, market, barter, trade or exchange tobacco, tobacco products or paraphernalia including e-cigarette devices, and smoking and electronic games are both banned inside the shop. A smoke shop that lawfully existed and held a valid business license before the ordinance's effective date can continue operating without a new CUP unless it undergoes a substantial change in mode or character, such as expanding floor area, remodeling, a pattern of legal violations, or closing for more than 30 days; a change of ownership alone does not count.

City staff compiled an inventory of these lawfully existing shops with the Community Development Department, and only shops on that list qualify for the grandfathering.