Montgomery County, MD Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

Cannabis dispensaries in Montgomery County must hold a valid license from the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) and comply with local zoning requirements under the Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Chapter 59. The County Council has addressed cannabis retail through zoning text amendments following the 2023 legalization. Dispensaries are generally permitted in commercial zones (CR, CRT, CRN) and employment zones (EOF, LSC) subject to the use standards for retail establishments. The Maryland Cannabis Reform Act requires dispensaries to maintain a minimum 500-foot buffer from the property line of any pre-existing public or private school (elementary or secondary). Montgomery County may impose additional buffer requirements near sensitive uses such as parks, libraries, or community centers through conditional use processes. The MCA regulates hours of operation (generally 9 AM to 9 PM unless locally adjusted), security requirements including surveillance cameras and alarm systems, signage restrictions (no depictions of cannabis plants or products visible from outside), and product testing and labeling. Montgomery County does not currently impose a local cannabis tax beyond the state excise tax. The Department of Permitting Services reviews cannabis establishments for building code, fire safety, and use and occupancy compliance. Drive-through dispensaries may be restricted based on the zoning district.