How Pembroke Pines Handles Cannabis Regulations: A Practical Guide
Pembroke Pines maintains 124 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with cannabis regulations. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Pembroke Pines falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Dispensary Zoning
Pembroke Pines prohibits medical marijuana dispensing facilities everywhere within city limits. Section 155.516 exercises the opt-out authority Florida gives municipalities under F.S. § 381.986(11), with the City Commission finding a citywide ban on medical marijuana treatment center dispensaries is in the city's best interest.
Key details: Dispensary status: Prohibited citywide. Legal basis: F.S. § 381.986(11) municipal opt-out. Adopting ordinance: Ord. 2021-02, adopted March 17, 2021. What's banned: Dispensing facilities only, not patient use. General penalty: Up to $500 fine or 90 days (§ 10.99).
The LDC does not set a distinct fine for § 155.516; establishing a prohibited dispensing facility is an unlawful use under §§ 155.542 and 155.543, subject to the citywide general penalty in § 10.99, up to a $500 fine, up to 90 days in jail, or both, with each day of continued operation a separate offense under § 10.98(B), and the city may also pursue nuisance abatement under § 10.98(A).
Compared to other cities, Pembroke Pines takes a harder line on dispensary zoning. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Home Cultivation
Home cultivation of cannabis is prohibited in Florida. FL Statute 381.986 does not authorize personal cultivation by medical marijuana patients. Pembroke Pines enforces state law. The 2024 adult-use amendment did not include home-grow provisions. Any cultivation without a state license is a felony under FL Statute 893.
Key details: Home Growing: Prohibited statewide. State Law: FL §381.986 & §893.13. Medical Patients: Cannot grow at home. Penalty: Felony charges. Licensing: State license required to cultivate.
Unauthorized cannabis cultivation is a felony under FL Statute 893.13. State and local law enforcement may pursue criminal charges.
Compared to other cities, Pembroke Pines takes a harder line on home cultivation. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
The Bottom Line
Pembroke Pines 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 Pembroke Pines, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
These rules come from Pembroke Pines's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.