Dispensary Zoning: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
All commercial cannabis activity — including retail dispensaries, cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and distribution — is banned in unincorporated LA County (including Altadena) under Ordinance 2017-0025.
View full Altadena rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica limits medical cannabis retailers to 2 locations under SMMC §9.31.185 and Ch. 6.201. Dispensaries must be 600+ ft from schools, parks, libraries, daycares, and other dispensaries. Adult-use sales approved Sept 2025, with a 3% gross receipts tax.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA County Ord. 2017-0025 | - |
| Retail Dispensaries | Banned | - |
| Commercial Cultivation | Banned | - |
| Delivery | Allowed from licensed cities | - |
| Medical Limit | - | 2 dispensaries max |
| Buffer | - | 600 ft from schools/parks/libraries |
| Adult-Use | - | Approved Sept 2025 |
| Tax | - | 3% of gross receipts |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Are dispensaries allowed in Altadena?
No. LA County Ordinance 2017-0025 bans all commercial cannabis retail, cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and distribution in unincorporated areas.
Santa Monica FAQ
Are dispensaries legal in Santa Monica?
Yes. Santa Monica licenses a limited number of dispensaries in commercial zones.
How many dispensaries are there?
Santa Monica limits the number of cannabis retail licenses. Check city website for current licensed locations.
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