Providence, RI Cannabis Regulations: Buffer Zones (2026)

Under the Providence Zoning Ordinance, a Cannabis Retailer may not locate within 500 feet of the property line of a preexisting public or private school or another Cannabis Retailer. The same 500-foot school buffer applies to Social Equity/Workers' Cooperative Licensed Cannabis Retailers. Setbacks are measured using a direct line from the nearest property line of the retailer to the nearest property line of the school or other retailer. Cannabis retail is a special-use category requiring a special use permit, with notice sent to the City Clerk and the ward council person. A separate, larger buffer of 1,000 feet from a school (and 1/4 mile from another Hybrid Cannabis Retailer/Cultivator) applies to Hybrid Cannabis Retailer/Cannabis Cultivator facilities, which combine retail and cultivation.