Planning Division

Cannabis Information

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What type of cannabis businesses are allowed?
    • All types of cannabis businesses that are allowed by the State are allowed within the cannabis overlay district.
  • Is there a deadline to submit an application for a cannabis business?
    • The City is currently accepting Use Permit applications for cannabis businesses and does not have a deadline to apply. The application process is ongoing.
  • Is the City using a licensing or merit based system?
    • The City is not using a licensing system or merit based system to award licenses. The City is processing Use Permits applications, which are land use entitlements that run with the land. The process to open a cannabis business is similar to opening a new bar in the City: an applicant first applies for a Use Permit through the City; if the Use Permit is approved, then the applicant can apply for a license through the State. The Use Permit handout is available here: https://www.antiochca.gov/community-development-department/planning-division/cannabis-information/
  • Is there a cap on the maximum number of cannabis businesses that will be allowed?
    • The City has not placed a cap on how many cannabis businesses will be allowed to operate in the City. However, there are 600’ separation requirements between retail cannabis businesses and from other types of land uses. Given the small geographic area where cannabis businesses are allowed in the City, the separation requirements may result in geographic limitations to the number of locations that may be feasible for cannabis businesses.
  • Do I need a business location before I can apply for a Use Permit?
    • A Use Permit is tied to a specific tenant space/property. In order to submit an application, the applicant must obtain the property owner’s signature on the application form. The City recommends making any leases for a tenant space contingent upon approval of a Use Permit.