La Mesa Municipal Code Ch. 10.17 Novelty Lighters

(a) Prohibition. The retail sale, offer of retail sale, gift or distribution of any novelty lighter within the territorial jurisdiction of the city of La Mesa is prohibited. This prohibition is inapplicable to: (1) novelty lighters which are being actively transported through the city; or (2) novelty lighters located in a warehouse closed to the public for purposes of retail sales.

(b) Definition. "Novelty lighter" means a lighter which is especially attractive to children ten years or younger due to a toy-like design or other features, such as buttons or devices that initiate visual effects, flashing lights, or musical sounds that might encourage a child to use the lighter.

(c) Exceptions. The term novelty lighter excludes: (1) any lighter manufactured prior to 1980; and (2) any lighter which lacks fuel or a device necessary to produce combustion or a flame.

(d) Enforcement. The provisions of this chapter shall be enforced by the city of La Mesa police department, the city of La Mesa fire department, and any other authorized representative of the city. All violations shall be punishable as an infraction pursuant to the municipal code.

(Ord. 2008-2792 § 1; May 27, 2008)