Costa Mesa voters approved Measure Q in 2020, allowing the city to adopt rules permitting retail cannabis uses including storefronts (dispensaries) and non-storefront delivery operations. The city has adopted Ordinances No. 2024-03 and 2024-04 establishing zoning and licensing requirements for cannabis businesses.
Costa Mesa voters approved Measure Q in November 2020, authorizing the city to permit retail cannabis uses. The city has since adopted Ordinance No. 2024-03 (Planning, Zoning, and Development) and Ordinance No. 2024-04 (Licenses and Business Regulations) governing cannabis operations. Costa Mesa permits the operation of cannabis manufacturing, distribution, testing labs, and retail businesses offering dispensary and home delivery services at approved locations. Cannabis retail storefronts must comply with zoning requirements including distance buffers from schools, parks, youth-oriented facilities, and other sensitive uses. Dispensaries are limited to specific commercial and industrial zones designated by the city. A Cannabis Business Permit is required from the city in addition to state licensing. The city conducts a competitive application process for cannabis retail permits. Non-storefront (delivery-only) operations are also permitted under separate zoning provisions. All cannabis businesses must comply with security, signage, odor control, and operating hour requirements established by the city. Cannabis consumption lounges and on-site consumption are subject to separate regulations.
Operating a cannabis business without proper city and state permits is subject to administrative citations, fines, and potential criminal prosecution. Contact Costa Mesa Code Enforcement at (714) 754-5623 or the Cannabis Business Permit office for compliance questions.
Costa Mesa, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle dispensary zoning.
See how Costa Mesa's dispensary zoning rules stack up against other locations.
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