Inspections lead to closure of 18 vape shops, seizure of illegal weapons

Richmond, VA - On December 19, Mayor Danny Avula, Richmond Police Department Chief Rick Edwards, and Planning and Development Review Director Kevin Vonck announced Operation Vaporize, the City's coordinated operation to enforce zoning, building, and safety code requirements at vape shop retail establishments.

Operation Vaporize focuses on ensuring compliance with local and state regulations, including the Code of Virginia §15.2-907 and Richmond City Code §11-155. Inspection teams from Richmond Police, Fire, Planning and Development Review, Zoning, and Finance conduct routine inspections and issue violations when businesses fail to meet requirements. In some cases, inspections have uncovered evidence of suspected criminal activity. When that occurs, RPD seeks search warrants, which have resulted in seizures of illegal weapons, drugs, and illicit currency. To date, Operation Vaporize has inspected 30 vape shops, issuing 274 violations. Eighteen businesses have been placarded and closed until they meet full compliance with zoning, building, and health and safety requirements.

Results to Date: 

• 30 vape shops inspected
• 274 violations issued
• 18 businesses closed
• 17 RPD led-search warrants conducted
• 31 illegal firearms recovered
• Over 100 lbs. of bulk marijuana and illegal THC products seized
• Over $60,000 in illicit currently seized

"Protecting the health and safety of our community, especially our young people, is non-negotiable. As a public health doctor and dad, I know the risks illegal vape products pose. Most businesses follow the rules. For those who choose not to, we will enforce our codes to keep Richmond families safe," said Mayor Danny Avula.

"I appreciate all the good work done by the folks from the Richmond Police Department and departments across the city to address the issues created by vape shops operating illegally. We will continue to press our multi-prong approach and look forward to continued success with our partners," said Richmond Police Department Chief Edwards.

"To protect the health and safety of all our residents, the City has an obligation to ensure all businesses are both zoning and building code compliant. We are willing to educate and worth with owners on how to correct violations in a timely manner," said Director Kevin Vonck, Director of Planning and Development Review.

For more information: Operation Vaporize Presentation from 12/19/2025 Press Conference

City of Richmond Operation Vaporize Inspection Video from 12/19/2025 Press Conference