Nov. 26: Proposed Cannabis Regulations
Cannabis regulations will require changes to the City Code and Zoning Code.
Brief Overview of Regulations
The regulations are intended to allow for cultivation, manufacture, transport, and retail of cannabis as required by the state while limiting potential negative impacts on neighbors, children, and public safety.
Retail: The proposed maximum number of cannabis retail establishments is one (1). This type of establishment would be similar to a smoke shop, in that merchandise would be purchased for off-site consumption. Establishments selling lower-potency hemp edibles and drinks would not count toward the license maximum. For example, a properly registered restaurant or bar could serve hemp THC drinks without impacting the availability of a license for a smoke-shop type cannabis store.
Cultivation: Outdoor cultivation would be allowed with an interim use permit in the Single Family Rural and St. Croix - Rural Residential districts (zoning map). Indoor cultivation would be allowed as an interim use in the Light Industrial District. All cultivators would be required to ensure that odors and noise are not detectable at the property line, that lighting is shielded, and security measures are in place.
Manufacture, Transport, and Delivery: These would be permitted in the Light Industiral District.
Temporary Cannabis Events: These would be regulated in alignment with current regulations governing special events, including a four-per-year limit for residential properties. In addition, on-site consumption would be prohibited and no cannabis event would be allowed within 250 feet of a school or child care center.
For further detail, please read the ordinances themselves.