California's MAUCRSA framework lets local jurisdictions adopt social equity programs. Santa Clara County has limited unincorporated cannabis licensing, with state Bureau of Cannabis Control administering equity outreach grants.
California's Medicinal and Adult-Use Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act (MAUCRSA) authorizes Department of Cannabis Control licensing statewide. Business and Professions Code §26240 funds local equity programs supporting applicants harmed by past prohibition enforcement. Santa Clara County's unincorporated areas allow only limited cannabis activity, with most retail concentrated in incorporated cities like San Jose. The County does not operate a standalone equity license program; applicants seeking equity status apply through state DCC or city programs (San Jose has its own). Equity benefits include fee waivers, technical assistance, and priority processing. County zoning restricts commercial cannabis operations to specific industrial parcels under Title C with full Use Permit review.
Operating without state license risks BPC §26038 penalties up to three times license fee or $30,000 per violation, plus seizure and criminal charges.
See how Palo Alto's social equity licensing rules stack up against other locations.
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