Selma, CA Cannabis Regulations: Dispensary Zoning (2026)

The City of Selma has adopted a comprehensive prohibition on cannabis dispensaries and commercial sales under Chapter 32 of the Selma Municipal Code. Medical marijuana dispensaries are prohibited in all zoning districts throughout the city. This prohibition extends to retail storefronts, delivery-only operations, distribution facilities, manufacturing, testing laboratories, and all other commercial cannabis activities. The ordinance was adopted by the Selma City Council based on findings that cannabis dispensaries are incompatible with the community's land use goals, present public safety concerns, and are not required under California state law. The California Supreme Court has upheld the authority of local jurisdictions to prohibit cannabis businesses within their boundaries, even after the passage of Proposition 64 legalizing recreational cannabis in 2016. While state law provides a framework for licensing commercial cannabis operations, it explicitly preserves local control and does not require any city or county to permit such activities. The closest licensed dispensaries to Selma residents are located in neighboring cities in Fresno County or in the City of Fresno, which has adopted its own commercial cannabis licensing program. Selma reviews its cannabis policies periodically but has maintained the prohibition. Any change to allow dispensaries would require an amendment to the Municipal Code by the City Council.