Public Safety
L.A. Council adopts nitrous oxide sales ban for tobacco and cannabis shops
Los Angeles moved to bar tobacco and cannabis retailers from selling or distributing nitrous oxide, adding city misdemeanor penalties while preserving exemptions for legitimate uses.
The Los Angeles City Council adopted the ordinance on October 7, according to the official council file. Los Angeles Times reporting published October 13 said the council vote was unanimous and followed years of concern about recreational misuse of the gas, commonly called laughing gas or whippits.
The measure applies to tobacco and cannabis retailers. It does not prohibit medical, food-service, automotive or industrial uses, and it exempts prepackaged food products in which nitrous oxide is used only as a propellant.
Council action: Adopted October 7, 2026
Maximum city penalty: $1,000 fine, six months in county jail, or both
Retailers covered: Tobacco and cannabis shops
Council file: 24-1220
City penalty is stronger than the state infraction
The Times reported that violating the city ordinance is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, as much as six months in county jail, or both. A related state law treats a violation as an infraction punishable by a fine, making the city’s enforcement provision more severe.
City officials and community supporters cited the health risks of recreational inhalation, including neurological injury, blood clots, asphyxiation and paralysis. The restriction focuses on retail access and does not change legitimate commercial or medical uses listed in the ordinance.
Sources: Los Angeles Times — October 13, 2026 → · Los Angeles City Clerk — Council File 24-1220 →