Dispensary Zoning: Boston vs Revere
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Boston, MA and Revere, MA?
Revere has fewer restrictions than Boston.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston regulates cannabis retail establishments through the Boston Cannabis Board (CBC Ord. §8-13) and zoning approval by the BPDA. Dispensaries must be at least 500 feet from schools and require a conditional use permit. The city has prioritized equity applicants and capped the number of non-equity licenses.
View full Boston rules →Revere, MA
Suffolk County
Boston permits marijuana establishments in specific zoning districts under Article 65 of the Zoning Code with a 500-foot buffer from schools (reducible to 250 feet). Chelsea allows dispensaries by special permit in business districts. Revere caps retail licenses and requires a host community agreement. Winthrop has opted out of recreational retail under MGL c. 94G, §3(a)(2).
View full Revere rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Revere |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Boston Cannabis Board (§8-13) | - |
| School Buffer | 500 feet from K-12 schools | - |
| Equity Goal | 50% of licenses to equity applicants | - |
| Hours | Typically 8 AM–11 PM | - |
| Requirements | Host Community Agreement + zoning approval | - |
| Boston Buffer | - | 500 ft from schools (Art. 65) |
| Chelsea | - | Special permit, Business/Industrial |
| Revere | - | Cap tied to 20% of liquor licenses |
| Winthrop | - | Recreational retail banned |
| State Authority | - | MGL c. 94G, §3; 935 CMR 500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
How far must a Boston dispensary be from a school?
Cannabis retail establishments must be at least 500 feet from pre-existing K-12 schools, measured in a straight line from the nearest property boundary point. This is set by the Boston Cannabis Board licensing requirements.
How does Boston's cannabis equity program work?
Boston prioritizes equity applicants — individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition — with a goal that at least 50% of cannabis licenses go to equity applicants. The Boston Cannabis Board administers the program.
Revere FAQ
Can I open a dispensary in Winthrop?
No recreational retail. Winthrop voted to prohibit marijuana establishments under MGL c. 94G, §3(a)(2). Medical registered marijuana dispensaries remain allowed.
What is a host community agreement?
A contract between the operator and the municipality required under MGL c. 94G, §3(d). It can include an impact fee up to 3% of gross sales for up to 8 years.
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