Auburn, WA Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

Although Washington Initiative 502 (I-502) authorized the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) to license marijuana producers, processors, and retailers statewide, the law permits cities and counties to impose local bans or restrictions, a position confirmed by the Washington Supreme Court in Emerald Enterprises v. Clark County (2017). The City of Auburn has historically maintained a prohibition on cannabis businesses in Auburn City Code Title 18 (Zoning), meaning no state-licensed retail marijuana shops, producers, or processors may legally operate within Auburn city limits. A state license does not override the local zoning ban. Auburn residents who want to purchase recreational cannabis travel to nearby jurisdictions that do allow retail, such as Federal Way, Tacoma, or unincorporated King or Pierce County locations, where WSLCB-licensed retailers can legally sell to adults 21 and over. Medical marijuana cooperatives for registered patients under RCW 69.51A must still comply with the Auburn zoning ban and generally cannot operate collectively in city limits. Any business that attempts to open a cannabis storefront in Auburn without authorization would be subject to immediate zoning enforcement and could be enjoined by the city. Changes to Auburn's cannabis posture would require City Council action amending Title 18. Contact Auburn Community Development at 253-931-3090 for current zoning status and any pending policy updates.