FAQs

Cannabis facilities in California must comply with both state regulations and any regulations established by the local jurisdictions where the business is located. The California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) requires cannabis facilities to obtain state licenses based on the type of cannabis activity to be performed. The County is in the process of determining which type of licenses, permits, and other related approvals will be required at the local level. These approvals may include licenses to operate, building permits, and/or discretionary permits, as well as various other permits, licenses and approvals for supporting activities. 

The Cannabis Program is currently under development and will require review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) prior to Board consideration for approval. It is anticipated staff will present the Cannabis Program to the Board in 2025. Should the Board approve the proposed Cannabis Program, PDS expects to open applications for cannabis facilities shortly after.  

Staff will be developing process guidelines and related materials to assist potential applicants in applying for and processing any required licenses, permits or other approvals. PDS will make these materials available following Board approval of the Cannabis Program. In addition, the Office of Equity and Racial Justice is including technical assistance for qualified social equity applicants as part of the Social Equity Entrepreneurs Program. More information about process guidelines and technical assistance will be available once the Social Equity Program is developed.

Yes, you may reside outside of the unincorporated area of the County and apply for a permit/license for a cannabis facility. However, the location of the facility must be within the boundaries of the unincorporated area of the County.