Evanston allows licensed cannabis dispensaries in designated commercial zoning districts with a special use permit. Dispensaries must maintain 1,500-foot buffers from schools, daycares, and other dispensaries. The city collects a 3% local cannabis retailers' occupation tax on sales. Evanston was among the first Illinois communities to establish a cannabis equity program.
Evanston permits adult-use cannabis dispensaries in certain commercial zoning districts subject to a special use permit approved by the City Council. The zoning ordinance requires dispensaries to maintain a minimum 1,500-foot buffer from schools, daycare centers, and other dispensaries. Dispensaries must be located in commercial or mixed-use districts — they are not permitted in residential zones. The special use permit process includes public hearings before the Plan Commission and City Council with community notification. Evanston imposes a 3% local cannabis retailers' occupation tax on top of state and county taxes. The city established a cannabis equity program directing a portion of tax revenue to communities most impacted by prior cannabis enforcement. Operating hours are regulated by the special use permit conditions. Security requirements include video surveillance, alarm systems, and controlled access. On-site consumption is not permitted. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) issues state dispensary licenses. Contact Community Development at (847) 448-4311 for zoning questions.
Operating a dispensary without a state license and local special use permit is a criminal offense and zoning violation. Violating buffer distance requirements can result in permit revocation. Operating outside approved hours or conditions subjects the dispensary to fines and potential permit revocation. Evanston PD at (847) 866-5000 handles enforcement of cannabis-related violations.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
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