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Lynn, MA Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

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

Key Facts

Recreational cannabis: prohibited in all zoning districts
Medical dispensaries: allowed only by special permit
Permit authority: City Council
Annual report deadline: January 31
Governing state statute cited: M.G.L. c. 94G, § 1
Fine: $300 per violation per day

Summary

Lynn's Zoning Ordinance forbids every licensed recreational cannabis establishment citywide, in every zoning district. Only registered medical marijuana dispensaries may operate, and only after the City Council grants a special permit under Section 8.E's siting, screening and reporting conditions.

c. Cannabis establishments forbidden. The operation of any cannabis establishment, as defined in M.G.L. c. 94G, § 1, including, without limitation, a cannabis cultivator, cannabis testing facility, cannabis product manufacturer, cannabis retailer, cannabis delivery business or any other type of licensed cannabis-related business, is prohibited in all zoning districts of the City. This prohibition shall not apply to the sale, distribution or cultivation of cannabis for medical purposes as set forth herein. ... a. Registered cannabis dispensaries shall be permitted only upon the grant of a special permit approved by the City Council.

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

Full Breakdown

E of the 2025 Zoning Ordinance, 'Registered medical cannabis dispensaries,' is Lynn's cannabis zoning chapter, adopted by the City Council June 24, 2025. c. i bars operating any facility for medical cannabis unless it is permitted as a registered dispensary in compliance with the section. 5. The Building Commissioner enforces the zoning chapter; the City Council issues and can revoke the special permit.

Violations & Fines

Operating a recreational cannabis establishment anywhere in Lynn, or a medical dispensary without a City Council special permit, is a zoning violation under Section 11.B. The Building Commissioner can order the use discontinued, and conviction carries a $300 fine per violation, with each day of continued operation a separate offense, under Section 11.B.3.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a recreational marijuana store in Lynn?

No. Section 8.E.1.c of the Zoning Ordinance prohibits any licensed cannabis establishment under M.G.L. c. 94G, including retailers, cultivators, and delivery businesses, 'in all zoning districts of the City,' with no district where recreational sales are allowed.

Are medical marijuana dispensaries allowed in Lynn?

Yes, but only as a registered cannabis dispensary approved by special permit from the City Council under Section 8.E.2.a. The general recreational ban in Section 8.E.1.c specifically exempts cannabis sold, distributed, or cultivated for medical purposes.

Who approves a cannabis dispensary special permit in Lynn?

The City Council, not the Zoning Board of Appeals. Section 8.E.2.a requires that a registered cannabis dispensary 'shall be permitted only upon the grant of a special permit approved by the City Council,' following the section's siting and background-check conditions.

What disqualifies someone from getting a Lynn cannabis permit?

A felony narcotics conviction, or convictions tied to certain child-safety statutes such as M.G.L. c. 119, § 63 or c. 272, § 28, bar an applicant or their officers from holding a special permit under Section 8.E.2.e and 8.E.2.f.

Sources & Official References

[1]City of Lynn Zoning Ordinance (v2025-12-09 as adopted), § 8.E

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