Richmond, CA Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

Richmond allows medical cannabis access under both California's Compassionate Use Act of 1996 (H&S Code §11362.5, Prop 215) and the subsequent MAUCRSA framework (BPC §26000+). Qualified patients with a physician's recommendation may possess and cultivate more cannabis than the adult-use 6-plant/ounce baseline when medically necessary (H&S Code §11362.77). Patients holding a state Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) issued by Contra Costa County Public Health under Senate Bill 420 are exempt from state sales tax (7.25-10.25%) on cannabis purchases, though the 15% cannabis excise tax still applies. Richmond's licensed commercial cannabis retailers (dispensaries) operate under RMC Chapter 7.102 (Commercial Cannabis Regulation) and are licensed to sell both adult-use and medical products; patients can purchase at age 18 with a physician's recommendation (vs 21 for adult-use). Caregivers designated under H&S Code §11362.7 can obtain and transport cannabis for up to 5 patients. Home delivery is permitted statewide under MAUCRSA and cannot be banned by local ordinance (contested but enforced by DCC — Department of Cannabis Control). Workplace protections: AB 2188 (2024) prohibits employment discrimination based on off-duty cannabis use, with exceptions for safety-sensitive roles. Medical users should retain physician documentation; federal law (Schedule I) still prohibits cannabis, so federally-funded housing, security clearances, and firearm ownership remain restricted.