Burlington requires licensed cannabis retail establishments to maintain a setback from schools, daycares, and youth-serving facilities. The buffer protects minors from advertising exposure and direct proximity to retail.
Following Vermont Cannabis Control Board rules and Burlington's local cannabis ordinance, retail cannabis storefronts must locate a minimum distance from public and private schools, licensed childcare centers, and recognized youth recreation facilities. The setback is measured from property line to property line. Burlington's local cannabis control commission reviews each application for compliance before issuing a local permit. Existing protected uses opening after a dispensary do not retroactively force closure. Signage facing protected uses is also restricted.
Locating a dispensary within a buffer zone results in permit denial, and existing operators violating signage rules face fines and potential license suspension.
See how Burlington's buffer zones rules stack up against other locations.
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