Cannabis Regulations in Longmont, CO

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

Dispensary Zoning

Longmont bans marijuana cultivation, product manufacturing, and testing facilities citywide, carving out one narrow exception: state- and city-licensed marijuana stores operating under Chapter 6.70's capped licensing program.

Key details: Cultivation facilities: Prohibited citywide. Manufacturing facilities: Prohibited citywide. Testing facilities: Prohibited citywide. Retail stores: Allowed only if licensed under Ch. 6.70. Penalty: Up to $500, 90 days jail.

Operating a prohibited marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, or testing facility violates § 9.60.045 and is punishable by up to $500 and 90 days in jail under § 9.60.070; each day of operation is a separate offense.

Compared to other cities, Longmont takes a harder line on dispensary zoning. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Buffer Zones

Longmont bars a licensed marijuana store, hospitality business, or dual-use center from opening, or moving to, any site within 250 feet of a residentially zoned area or within 1,000 feet of a K-12 school. The Local Marijuana Licensing Authority, chaired by the municipal judge, enforces the buffer at the application stage under Longmont Municipal Code § 6.70.105.

Key details: Residential buffer: 250 feet. School buffer: 1,000 feet (K-12). Applies to: new license & relocation applications. Licensing authority: Local Marijuana Licensing Authority. Civil fine range: $500-$100,000.

Operating a marijuana establishment that does not meet a locational requirement is an unlawful act under § 6.70.240(N), and grounds for the Authority to deny, suspend, or revoke the license under § 6.70.250, with a civil fine the Authority may set between $500.00 and $100,000.00 in lieu of suspension. A criminal violation of chapter 6.70 is punishable under the Code's general penalty, § 10.02.020: up to a $999.00 fine, up to 180 days in jail, or both, with each day of continued violation a separate offense under § 6.70.260.

The Bottom Line

Longmont's cannabis regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Longmont is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Longmont 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.