Cambridge, MA Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- MGL c.94G, 935 CMR 500
- School buffer
- 500 feet typical
- Host agreement
- Required
- Local approvals
- Planning Board and License Commission
- Equity
- Priority for Empowerment and Social Equity applicants
Summary
Cambridge permits licensed recreational and medical cannabis dispensaries under the city cannabis ordinance and zoning, with buffer zones from schools and a Host Community Agreement required.
Section 3. Local control
(a) A city or town may adopt ordinances and by-laws that impose reasonable safeguards on the operation of marijuana establishments, provided they are not unreasonably impracticable and are not in conflict with this chapter or with regulations made pursuant to this chapter and that:
(1) govern the time, place and manner of marijuana establishment operations and of any business dealing in marijuana accessories, except that zoning ordinances or by-laws shall not operate to: (i) prevent the conversion of a medical marijuana treatment center licensed or registered not later than July 1, 2017 engaged in the cultivation, manufacture or sale of marijuana or marijuana products to a marijuana establishment engaged in the same
Full Breakdown
Cambridge has permitted licensed adult-use (recreational) and medical cannabis dispensaries under the framework established by MGL Chapter 94G and the state Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) regulations at 935 CMR 500. The Cambridge Zoning Ordinance sets allowable districts for cannabis retail, cultivation, and product manufacturing, applies a minimum buffer distance (typically 500 feet) from K-12 schools, and requires each operator to execute a Host Community Agreement with the city addressing community impacts and contributions. Applicants must also obtain special permit approval from the Planning Board, pass Inspectional Services building and fire review, and receive a local license from the License Commission before the CCC issues a final state license. Cambridge has also adopted equity provisions prioritizing Economic Empowerment and Social Equity applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cannabis dispensaries legal in Cambridge?
Is there a buffer from schools?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cambridge
Compare Cambridge to another location·View the Massachusetts cannabis regulations overview
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Dispensary Zoning in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle dispensary zoning.