Fort Lauderdale, FL Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- ULDR §47-18.46
- Permitted Zones
- B-1, B-2, B-3 only
- Buffer from Schools/Parks
- 1,500 feet minimum
- Buffer from Other Dispensaries
- 5,280 feet (1 mile)
- Recreational Sales
- Not permitted. Florida law
Summary
Fort Lauderdale permits medical marijuana dispensaries only in B-1 (Boulevard Business), B-2 (General Business), and B-3 (Heavy Commercial/Light Industrial) zoning districts under ULDR Section 47-18.46. Dispensaries must maintain distance buffers from sensitive uses.
A licensed medical marijuana treatment center may not contract for services directly related to the cultivation, processing, and dispensing of marijuana or marijuana delivery devices, except that a medical marijuana treatment center licensed pursuant to subparagraph (a)1. may contract with a single entity for the cultivation, processing, transporting, and dispensing of marijuana and marijuana delivery devices. A licensed medical marijuana treatment center must, at all times, maintain compliance with the criteria demonstrated and representations made in the initial application and the criteria established in this subsection.
Full Breakdown
Under ULDR Section 47-18.46, medical marijuana treatment center dispensing facilities may be located only in B-1, B-2, and B-3 zoning districts. Dispensaries must maintain a minimum distance of 1,500 feet from any park, library, school, or child daycare facility. Additionally, dispensaries must be at least 5,280 feet (one mile) from any other medical cannabis dispensing facility. Only state-licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers authorized by the Florida Department of Health may operate dispensaries. Recreational cannabis dispensaries are not permitted as Florida has not legalized adult-use cannabis.
Violations & Fines
Operating an unlicensed dispensary or operating in a prohibited zone is a violation of both state law and the ULDR. Violations may result in criminal prosecution and code enforcement action including closure orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can marijuana dispensaries operate in Fort Lauderdale?
Are recreational marijuana dispensaries allowed in Fort Lauderdale?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Lauderdale
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Fort Lauderdale to another location·View the Florida cannabis regulations overview
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Dispensary Zoning in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Broward County handle dispensary zoning.