Dispensary Zoning: Carson vs Long Beach
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Carson, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Carson and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
Carson, CA
Los Angeles County
All commercial cannabis activity is prohibited in unincorporated LA County. No dispensaries, retail, cultivation, manufacturing, or distribution facilities are permitted. The county is not accepting applications for cannabis business licenses. State will not license cannabis businesses in unincorporated areas.
View full Carson rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Cannabis dispensaries in Long Beach are regulated under LBMC Ch. 5.92. The city allows 27-35 dispensaries total. Dispensaries cannot be within 600 ft of parks, libraries, or daycares, or within 1,000 ft of schools, beaches, or other dispensaries.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carson | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Cannabis | Prohibited entirely | - |
| Dispensaries | Banned in all zones | - |
| Applications | Not being accepted | - |
| Penalties | Civil and criminal for violations | - |
| Total Allowed | - | 27-35 dispensaries citywide |
| School Buffer | - | 1,000 ft |
| Park/Library Buffer | - | 600 ft |
| Code | - | LBMC Ch. 5.92, §5.92.420 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carson FAQ
Can I open a dispensary in unincorporated LA County?
No. All commercial cannabis activities are prohibited in unincorporated LA County under Chapter 22.222. This includes dispensaries, cultivation facilities, manufacturing, and testing labs.
Can cannabis be delivered to unincorporated LA County?
Yes. Under state law (BPC 26090), licensed delivery services from dispensaries in other jurisdictions may deliver to addresses in unincorporated LA County.
Does the commercial ban affect personal use?
No. Adults 21+ can possess up to 28.5 grams of cannabis and grow up to 6 plants at home under Proposition 64 and state law, regardless of the commercial ban.
Long Beach FAQ
Are dispensaries legal in Long Beach?
Yes. Long Beach has an active licensing program for cannabis retail in commercial and industrial zones.
What is the cannabis tax?
Long Beach imposes a 6% tax on gross receipts for retail cannabis operations.
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