Cannabis Regulations in Ontario, CA

Every city handles cannabis regulations a little differently. In Ontario, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Home Cultivation

Ontario residents 21 and older may grow up to 6 cannabis plants indoors per residence under Proposition 64, but outdoor cultivation is banned by OMC Chapter 9 ordinance.

Key details: Indoor plant limit: 6 per residence. Outdoor cultivation: Prohibited in Ontario. Age: 21 or older. Secured area: Locked, enclosed, not visible. Landlords: May ban under Civil Code 1947.5.

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

Dispensary Zoning

Ontario prohibits every commercial cannabis business, including dispensaries, delivery services and cultivation operations, in all zoning districts citywide. The city has not opted in to any state cannabis licensing category, so no location in Ontario is zoned for a storefront or delivery-only dispensary.

Key details: Commercial cannabis status: Prohibited in all zoning districts. Dispensary permits issued: None; no entitlement path exists. Governing sections: OMC Sec. 6-18.04(b), 6-18.05. Administrative fine: $100 to $1,000 per violation, per day. Adopted: Ord. 3059 (2016), amended Ord. 3236 (2023).

Operating a prohibited cannabis business is a misdemeanor or infraction at the discretion of the City Attorney or District Attorney under Sec. 6-18.06(a). The city can also issue administrative citations without a prior notice of violation, with fines up to $1,000 and not less than $100 per violation, and each day of operation is a separate violation. Property owners who allow an illegal cannabis business on their land face citation too.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Ontario actively enforces its dispensary zoning requirements.

The Bottom Line

Ontario 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 Ontario, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Ontario's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.