Arlington has approved a prohibition on kratom sales, distribution and related advertising, with the new rules scheduled to take effect Nov. 18.
The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2026-024 on Oct. 19, according to the city’s published ordinance record. The measure creates Chapter 6.12 of the Arlington Municipal Code.
Starting Nov. 18, the ordinance prohibits people and organizations from knowingly selling or distributing kratom products within Arlington, advertising them for sale or distribution, or permitting them to be sold. Its definition of distribution includes giving products away without payment.
The text provides for a class 1 civil infraction with a $250 fine. Each separate sale, advertisement or distribution counts as a separate violation, as does each 24-hour period of a continuing violation. Retailers found in violation may also have their city business license revoked or denied.
The ordinance does not prohibit possession or personal use.
In its original announcement, the city cited public health and safety as its reason for pursuing the restrictions.
