Cannabis dispensaries are not permitted in Houston. Texas allows only a limited number of licensed compassionate-use dispensing organizations statewide under the Compassionate Use Act. Houston has no zoning code, and recreational cannabis remains illegal statewide.
Texas allows only licensed compassionate-use dispensing organizations to provide low-THC cannabis to qualified patients under the Texas Compassionate Use Act (Occupations Code Ch. 169). The number of licenses is extremely limited statewide, and these operations are regulated by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Houston does not and cannot establish dispensary zoning because recreational cannabis is illegal under state law. Since Houston famously has no traditional zoning code, land use for legal businesses is primarily governed by deed restrictions and the Chapter 42 development ordinance rather than use-based zoning districts. Hemp-derived THC product retail stores are legal but face increasing state regulation, including license fees of $5,000 per location effective 2026.
Operating an unlicensed cannabis dispensary is a felony under Texas law. Penalties depend on the quantity involved and can include years of imprisonment.
Houston, TX
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Houston, TX
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Houston, TX
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Houston, TX
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Houston, TX
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Houston, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle dispensary zoning.
See how Houston's dispensary zoning rules stack up against other locations.
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