Metro Council advances regulations for vape shops, beer and cigarette markets

The Metro Council is moving forward with an ordinance to increase regulations for beer and cigarette markets across Nashville.

The ordinance passed on its second reading Tuesday night and follows Metro legislation passed earlier this year to add vape shops within the definition of beer and cigarette markets. The proposal requires a quarter-mile limit between the markets and prohibits them from operating within 100 feet of playgrounds, parks, daycares and religious institutions. It also instills regulations for signage and lighting around the perimeters of doors and windows.

“Taken together, these standards strike a balance,” said Councilmember Emily Benedict who sponsored the bill along with Councilmember Brenda Gadd. “It allows the businesses to operate but it also improves th