Denver voters are expected to weigh in this November on whether the city’s ban on flavored nicotine product sales will remain in effect, following a successful petition drive by a coalition of vape retailers.

According to the Denver Clerk and Recorder’s Office, at least 9,494 of the more than 17,000 signatures submitted in support of the measure have been verified—enough to qualify the referendum for the ballot. The office will formally notify the City Council after the end of the protest period on Friday.

The issue is likely to appear on the city’s general election ballot on November 4, though the council retains the option to call a special election. However, the additional cost and planning typically discourage that route.

The City Council passed the flavored tobacco ban in December 2024 by an 11-1 vote. The ordinance took effect on March 18, prohibiting the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including cigars, pipe tobacco, and vaping items. An exemption was made for flavored products sold at licensed hookah retailers for use in hookahs. The ban does not criminalize possession or use of flavored tobacco.

Initial enforcement of the ban is scheduled to begin July 1, with what city officials have described as a “soft enforcement” phase. Retailers caught selling banned products during this period will receive written warnings rather than penalties. Full enforcement—including fines and potential license suspensions—is set to begin on January 1, 2026.

Ryann Money, a spokesperson for the city’s enforcement department, told the Denver Post that education and outreach efforts with retailers will continue throughout the transition period.

Supporters of the ballot measure say the ban threatens small businesses and limits consumer choice. City officials and public health advocates, on the other hand, argue the restrictions are aimed at curbing youth nicotine use and protecting public health.