Novato City Council Directs Continued Research and Community Engagement on Cannabis Storefront Retail

At its April 28 meeting, the Novato City Council directed City staff to continue research, analysis and community outreach regarding allowing cannabis stores within the city limits.

This direction builds on prior public input, a community survey and retail market analysis and reflects the Council's interest in gathering additional information before making final policy decisions.

Over the coming months, City staff will:

• Expand community engagement efforts, including outreach to residents, businesses and partner agencies to gather feedback on key considerations
• Develop a draft policy framework addressing zoning and land use, potential limits on the number of storefronts, operational and security standards, equity considerations and enforcement mechanisms
• Evaluate potential locations and zoning amendments, with proposed changes to be reviewed by the City's Planning Commission
• Assess fiscal and regulatory impacts including administrative costs and compliance requirements
• Return to the City Council with a comprehensive draft policy for consideration at a future public meeting

Cannabis storefront retail refers to licensed, physical locations where cannabis products are sold directly to adult consumers. Cannabis businesses are regulated at both the state and local level. The City currently allows all types of commercial cannabis business activities, except retail storefronts, with an established application review process, licensing procedures and operational standards for permitted activities.

Exploration of cannabis storefront retail is identified as a priority in the City Council's 2023-2025 Strategic Plan. No final decisions have been made at this time. Additional information is available at novato.gov/cannabis.