Shops urged to comply with new vape laws
Trading standards officers at Telford & Wrekin Council have been urging retailers to prepare for significant changes in legislation regarding single use vapes.
From Sunday 1 June, the sale of disposable vapes will be banned under new regulations, introduced by government in January 2024, aimed at protecting the environment and public health.
Councillor Richard Overton, (Lab) Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing & Enforcement said:
“By working together, we hope to achieve compliance and avoid costly enforcement action.
“With proactive support before the ban, we aim to foster cooperation and compliance among local retailers, reducing enforcement needs.
“Littering not only spoils our communities but can also introduce harmful chemicals into the soil, rivers, and streams, endangering biodiversity.
“When single use vapes are improperly disposed of, they often end up in landfill or are incinerated, leading to a permanent loss of critical resources such as lithium, the major component in rechargeable batteries, found in mobile phones, hybrid cars and electric bikes.”
Steps retailers must take immediately:
- Cease purchasing new stock of single use vapes.
- Sell through existing stock before 1 June.
- Transition to vapes that comply with the new regulations.
Responsibilities from 1 June:
- Retailers must stop selling or offering single use vapes.
- Remove remaining stock of single use vapes from store shelves, online listings and promotional displays.
- Store remaining single use vapes separately, clearly labelled as NOT FOR SALE.
- Arrange disposal through a registered vape recycling service.
Trading standards officers will visit independent retailers over the coming months, providing guidance and support to help businesses adapt to the new legislation.
Post-ban, the team will continue to conduct stock inspections to ensure the regulations are being followed.
