Santa Monica, CA Cannabis Regulations: Buffer Zones (2026)
Key Facts
- Buffer Distance
- 600 feet
- Protected Uses
- Schools, youth centers, state-licensed day care centers
- Buffer Measurement Timing
- At time of complete permit application submission
- School Definition Reference
- SMMC § 9.51.030
Summary
Commercial cannabis uses in Santa Monica must be located at least 600 feet from schools, youth centers, and licensed day care centers, measured at the time a complete permit application is submitted.
E. Location Requirements.
1. Cannabis uses shall be permitted within nonresidential districts.
2. Permitted cannabis uses shall be prohibited within 600 feet of the following locations:
a. Schools, as defined in Section 9.51.030.
b. A youth center that is in existence at the time a complete commercial cannabis business permit application is submitted.
c. A day care center licensed by the State Department of Social Services that is in existence at the time a complete commercial cannabis business permit application is submitted.
F. Parking and Loading. Any parking and loading provided shall comply with all development standards set forth in Chapter 9.28, Parking, Loading, and Circulation, and the requirements for the district in which the cannabis use is located.
G. Operating Requirements. Cannabis uses shall comply with the operational requirements within Chapter 6.200 of this Code, as may be amended.
Full Breakdown
The 600-foot buffer applies to schools as defined in SMMC § 9.51.030, any youth center in existence at application time, and any day care center licensed by the California Department of Social Services at application time. Uses that open near an existing dispensary after the permit was issued do not retroactively affect the dispensary's permit. This buffer stacks on top of the nonresidential zoning requirement.
Violations & Fines
Cannabis uses established within the 600-foot buffer will be denied permits or have existing permits revoked. Violations are enforceable under SMMC Chapter 1.08.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 600-foot buffer apply to all school types?
If a day care opens near an existing dispensary, does the dispensary have to close?
What types of uses trigger the 600-foot buffer?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California cannabis regulations overview
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Buffer Zones in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle buffer zones.