Doral's Cannabis Regulations: The Rules That Matter

If you live in Doral or are thinking about moving there, cannabis regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Doral has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of cannabis regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Dispensary Zoning

Doral does not currently have licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) dispensaries operating within city limits. Florida's MMTC licensing is controlled at the state level, with municipalities having limited authority to regulate dispensary locations through zoning. Doral's Land Development Code does not contain specific zoning provisions for cannabis dispensaries.

Key details: Local Dispensaries: No MMTCs currently in Doral. State Licensing: MMTC license required from FL DOH. Local Zoning: No specific dispensary zoning provisions. Municipal Authority: Cannot ban but can impose zoning rules. Buffer Distances: Not currently adopted by Doral.

Operating a marijuana dispensary without a state MMTC license is a felony. Dispensing marijuana without proper licensing is punishable under Florida Statute 893.13 with penalties including imprisonment. Zoning violations for improperly located dispensaries may result in city Code Enforcement action and injunctive relief.

This is one of the stricter rules in Doral's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Home Cultivation

Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Doral and throughout Florida. Florida law does not permit personal cultivation of marijuana, even for medical marijuana cardholders. Only licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) may cultivate cannabis under the state's tightly regulated program.

Key details: Home Cultivation: Illegal for all purposes. Medical Patients: May purchase but not grow. Recreational Use: Illegal in Florida. Penalty (1-25 plants): Third-degree felony, up to 5 years. Hemp Growing: Requires state license.

Cultivation of cannabis plants is classified as manufacturing under Florida Statute 893.13. Cultivation of 25 or fewer plants is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Cultivation of more than 25 plants is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Compared to other cities, Doral takes a harder line on home cultivation. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Doral is tougher than many cities when it comes to cannabis regulations. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Doral, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Doral can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.