Linden, NJ Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

Cannabis retail zoning across Union County reflects significant municipal variation authorized by the Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act (CREAMMA, N.J.S.A. 24:6I-31 et seq.). Under CREAMMA, municipalities had until August 21, 2021 to adopt local ordinances opting out of any or all of the six cannabis license classes (cultivator, manufacturer, wholesaler, distributor, retailer, delivery); those that did not were default-permitting with land use authority to restrict location and operation. Elizabeth passed Ordinance 4689 permitting adult-use dispensaries in commercial/mixed-use zones with 1,000 ft buffer from schools, 500 ft from houses of worship, and conditional use permit approval. Linden, Rahway, Plainfield, and Hillside similarly permit with buffer and zoning requirements. Summit opted out of all six license classes via Ordinance 21-2829. Westfield opted out via Ordinance 2089-2021. Cranford opted out. Scotch Plains, Mountainside, New Providence, Berkeley Heights, Fanwood, Garwood, Kenilworth opted out. Clark opted out but later revisited. Union Township opted out then partially reopened. Roselle and Roselle Park permit with conditions. Opt-out municipalities can revisit every 5 years. State licensing runs through the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) which has issued conditional and annual licenses; social equity priority for impact zones (Elizabeth and Plainfield qualify as Impact Zones under CREAMMA). Dispensaries must comply with CRC regulations on security (cameras, alarms, vaults), signage, hours (typically 9 AM-10 PM), and ID verification. Local 2% municipal transfer tax permitted.