Surprise permits licensed cannabis retail operations but imposes strict zoning distance requirements. Dispensaries must be at least 500 feet from residential zones, places of worship, and dwelling units. No dispensary may exceed 2,500 square feet. As of 2026, no dispensary operates within Surprise city limits.
The City of Surprise allows licensed cannabis retail operations under its zoning code. A dispensary may only operate upon obtaining the applicable state license and local permits. Dispensaries must be located at least 500 feet from any parcel in a residential zoning district, any dwelling unit, and any place of worship, measured from the closest exterior building wall. No dispensary may be located in a trailer, storage unit, cargo container, or motor vehicle. Dispensaries must be in permanent buildings. The maximum size is 2,500 gross square feet, except for co-located medical marijuana dispensary and retail establishments operated by dual licensees. Despite these allowances, no cannabis dispensary currently operates within Surprise city limits as of 2026. Residents access nearby dispensaries in other West Valley cities.
Operating without proper state and local licenses, or violating zoning distance requirements, may result in enforcement action including closure.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle dispensary zoning.
See how Surprise's dispensary zoning rules stack up against other locations.
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