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Jacksonville, FL Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Zoning Code
Jax Ord. Code Ch. 656, Part 4 (Supplementary Regulations)
State License
Florida Dept. of Health OMMU license required
Separation
Minimum distances from schools, daycares, churches
Recreational
Not legal in Florida: medical only
Local Authority
Jacksonville regulates location through zoning

Summary

Medical marijuana treatment centers (dispensaries) in Jacksonville are regulated under state law and local zoning provisions in Jax Ord. Code Ch. 656, Part 4 (Supplementary Regulations). Jacksonville has addressed dispensary placement through zoning code amendments requiring minimum separation distances from schools, daycares, churches, and other sensitive uses. Florida law limits dispensaries to operators licensed by the Florida Department of Health's Office of Medical Marijuana Use.

dispensing facility may not be located within 500 feet of the real property that comprises a public or private elementary school, middle school, or secondary school unless the county or municipality approves the location through a formal proceeding open to the public at which the county or municipality determines that the location promotes the public health, safety, and general welfare of the community. (d) This subsection does not prohibit any local jurisdiction from ens

Source: Jacksonville Ordinance Code Chapter 656 Zoning Code — Part 3 Schedule of District Regulations, Subpart C: Commercial Uses by Zoning DistrictView official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

Cannabis dispensary zoning in Jacksonville follows Florida state licensing requirements supplemented by local land use controls. Dispensaries are typically permitted in commercial and industrial zones through conditional use permits. Buffer zone requirements mandate minimum distances from sensitive uses: 500–1,000 feet from schools and daycare centers, 300–500 feet from parks and playgrounds, 300–1,000 feet from churches, and 500–1,000 feet from other dispensaries. Operating hours are typically limited to 8 AM–10 PM. Security requirements include surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and controlled entry. Consumption lounges (where permitted by state law) face additional restrictions. Jacksonville may cap the total number of dispensary licenses or impose moratoria on new applications.

Violations & Fines

Operating without local permit: $1,000–$10,000 per day. Buffer zone violations: denial or revocation of conditional use permit. Security deficiencies: 30-day compliance order, then suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can dispensaries be located in Jacksonville?
Dispensaries must comply with zoning requirements under Ch. 656, Part 4 including minimum separation distances from schools, daycares, and churches. They are limited to commercially zoned areas and must hold a state OMMU license.
Can Jacksonville ban dispensaries entirely?
Florida law preempts local governments from banning licensed medical marijuana treatment centers. However, Jacksonville can regulate where they are located through zoning and separation requirements.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Jacksonville

All Jacksonville rules

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