Rhode Island RIGL §21-28.11 allows cities to opt out of cannabis retail by ballot referendum. Providence allows dispensaries in commercial zones with 500-1000 ft school buffers. Cranston approved retail by referendum; several towns opted out.
Under RIGL §21-28.11-17 each municipality may prohibit retail cannabis only through a referendum passed on or before the November 2022 election. Towns that failed to opt out (majority of Providence County) must allow at least one licensed retailer per ~30,000 residents within the state's 33-license framework administered by the Cannabis Control Commission. Providence Zoning Ordinance Art. 14 Section 1404 designates cannabis retail as allowed by special use permit in C-2 (General Commercial), C-3 (Heavy Commercial), M-1, and M-2 zones, with a 500-foot buffer from schools and youth facilities. Cranston Zoning §17.92 requires a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, churches, and parks. Pawtucket and East Providence follow state minimum 500-foot school buffer. Dispensaries must have security cameras covering all entry/exit points, alarm systems, and licensed security personnel per 230-RICR-80-05-1. Hours are limited by state rule to 9 AM-9 PM. Annual state license fee is $30,000; local host agreements vary.
Operating without RI Cannabis Control Commission license: criminal charges and civil fines up to $25,000 per day under 230-RICR-80-05. Buffer or zoning violation: permit revocation. Sales to minors: felony under RIGL §21-28.11-21 and immediate license forfeiture.
Cranston, RI
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Cranston, RI
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Cranston, RI
Cranston Code Title 8, Chapter 8.20 sets residential noise limits at 55 dBA between 7 AM and 10 PM measured at the property line. Amplified sound equipment m...
Cranston, RI
Cranston regulates amplified music and events. Permits required for public amplification. Residential areas must comply with local noise ordinances.
Cranston, RI
Cranston requires Residential Parking Permits for overnight street parking, limited to two permits per address. Only RI-registered vehicles qualify. All outs...
Cranston, RI
Cranston regulates RV and recreational vehicle storage through zoning (Title 17) and parking ordinances (Title 10). Extended on-street storage is restricted....
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Providence County.
See how Cranston's dispensary zoning rules stack up against other locations.
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