Miami-Dade County, FL Cannabis Regulations: Buffer Zones (2026)
Key Facts
- School buffer
- 500 feet
- Statute
- FL §381.986(8)(b)
- Local zoning
- Pharmacy parity
- Adult-use
- Illegal (Amend 3 failed)
Summary
Florida preempts most local cannabis regulation under FL §381.986. Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers must locate at least 500 feet from public or private elementary, middle, or secondary schools. Miami-Dade applies pharmacy zoning to dispensaries since the state bars stricter local rules.
A medical marijuana treatment center dispensing facility may not be located within 500 feet of the real property that comprises a public or private elementary school, middle school, or secondary school unless the county or municipality approves the location through a formal proceeding open to the public at which the county or municipality determines that the location promotes the public health, safety, and general welfare of the community.
Full Breakdown
Under FL §381.986(8)(b), Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) must be sited at least 500 feet from the real property comprising a public or private elementary, middle, or secondary school. Local governments may either prohibit MMTCs entirely or treat them no more restrictively than they treat licensed pharmacies under their zoning code; they cannot impose unique buffer or separation rules beyond pharmacy parity. Miami-Dade has chosen pharmacy parity in unincorporated areas, allowing MMTCs in commercial and pharmacy zones. Recreational cannabis remains illegal after Florida Amendment 3 failed in November 2024, so no adult-use buffer rules exist.
Violations & Fines
Operating an MMTC inside the 500-foot school buffer or in a non-permitted zone triggers state license action by the Office of Medical Marijuana Use and county code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Miami-Dade impose its own dispensary buffer?
Are there recreational dispensaries in Miami-Dade?
Sources & Official References
- [1]FL §381.986
Other rules in Miami-Dade County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Miami-Dade County to another location·View the Florida cannabis regulations overview
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