Nashville's Planning Commission has taken significant steps to address concerns over the proliferation of vape shops and similar establishments in the city. During a recent meeting on July 24, 2025, the commission discussed a substitute bill aimed at regulating the spacing of these businesses, particularly in densely populated downtown areas.

The original proposal included a 1,300-foot spacing requirement between such establishments, which was deemed impractical for Nashville's urban core. The substitute bill removes this requirement, allowing for more flexibility in business placement while still addressing community concerns about over-concentration. Additionally, the substitute eliminates a previously proposed 100-foot distance restriction from residential areas, which could have severely limited the establishment of these businesses in many commercial zones.

Commission staff highlighted that the original bill posed potential legal risks, as it could be interpreted as a de facto prohibition on certain uses, potentially inviting state-level preemption. The new approach aligns better with existing zoning codes that regulate other similar uses, such as auto repair shops and pawn shops, which also have distance requirements but are not restricted by proximity to residential areas.

Council members expressed support for the substitute bill, emphasizing the need to balance community interests with business opportunities. They noted the visual and noise impact of multiple vape shops clustered together, particularly in areas like Gallatin Pike, where the concentration of such businesses is already high.

The commission ultimately voted to suspend the usual two-meeting deferral rule to expedite the process, allowing for a public hearing and a vote on the substitute bill in the same meeting. This decision reflects the urgency of addressing the issue while ensuring that community feedback is considered.

As Nashville continues to grow, the commission's actions aim to create a regulatory framework that supports both business development and community well-being, ensuring that the city's commercial landscape remains vibrant and accessible.