Aurora Bans Sale of Nitrous Oxide and Other Psychoactive Products at Vape and Convenience Stores
The Aurora City Council has voted to ban the sale of certain psychoactive substances and drug paraphernalia at convenience stores, vape shops, and liquor stores across the city. The move targets products such as flavored nitrous oxide canisters, poppers, synthetic marijuana, “mad honey,” mushroom gummies, and items that can be used to smoke crack.
Officials say these products have been sold in a “gray area” of enforcement, raising concerns about teens gaining easy access—especially at stores near schools. Maisha Fields, executive director of the Dayton Street Opportunity Center, said many young people regularly pass by shops offering vapes and psychedelic items, creating more exposure to harmful products than healthy opportunities.
The CDC has reported a 110% increase in deaths related to hypoxia from nitrous oxide abuse between 2019 and 2023. City leaders say the ordinance closes a loophole and aligns with state law by defining allowable limits of 7-hydroxy in kratom and THC in hemp products.
Trevor Vaughn, Aurora’s Manager of Licensing, said enforcement will focus on true drug paraphernalia and not legitimate items. The city plans to educate business owners about the changes and be transparent in enforcement actions. The new rules take effect in 30 days.
