Mount Vernon, Washington Becomes First City in Region to Ban Kratom Sales

Why it matters

The unanimous vote adds Mount Vernon to a growing list of Washington cities restricting kratom, showing local governments are moving ahead of state and federal regulators to curb sales of the unregulated products.

The big picture

Kratom and its more potent synthetic derivative, 7-OH, have spread through gas stations and smoke shops as marketed energy boosters and pain relievers. Clinicians in northwest Washington have reported a rising number of patients, including teenagers, developing addictions requiring opioid-level treatment, prompting Mount Vernon to follow Spokane and Spokane Valley in passing local restrictions.

Key findings

• Mount Vernon City Council voted unanimously to ban the sale, distribution or advertisement of all kratom products, including 7-OH derivatives
• Violators face a $250 fine and possible revocation of their business license
• Personal possession of kratom remains legal under the ordinance
• Spokane and Spokane Valley passed similar bans earlier in 2026
• Local clinicians say they've seen a rising number of kratom and 7-OH addiction cases, including among teenagers

What they say

The ban will "reduce the risk of accidental overdose, substance misuse, and long-term health impacts, and protects the public health, safety, and welfare of residents of Mount Vernon," according to the city ordinance. A mother told the council during public comment that her son died from kratom consumption.

Bottom line

**Mount Vernon's unanimous kratom sales ban makes it the latest Washington city to act locally while state and federal regulation of the products remains unsettled.**