Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Clearwater and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater allows licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers in any zoning district that permits pharmacies, as required by Florida Statute 381.986(11), and bans recreational dispensaries.
View full Clearwater rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Under Florida Statute 381.986, Tarpon Springs must regulate medical marijuana dispensaries the same as pharmacies; the city repealed its 2017 moratorium and now permits MMTCs in zoning districts where pharmacies are allowed.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| State preemption | FS 381.986(11) | - |
| Treated like | Pharmacies | - |
| School setback | 500 feet | - |
| Recreational | Prohibited | - |
| Governing law | - | Fla. Stat. 381.986(11) |
| Zoning standard | - | Same as pharmacies |
| Moratorium | - | Repealed in 2018 |
| Cap on dispensaries | - | Not allowed locally |
| License | - | State MMTC required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Can medical marijuana dispensaries open in Clearwater?
Yes. Florida law requires Clearwater to allow Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers wherever pharmacies are permitted, subject to a 500-foot school setback. Several MMTCs already operate in the city.
Are recreational cannabis stores allowed in Clearwater?
No. Florida only authorizes medical marijuana sales through state-licensed MMTCs. Recreational dispensaries cannot be licensed and would face enforcement under FS 893.13.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Can Tarpon Springs ban dispensaries entirely?
Yes, the city could ban all MMTCs, but if it allows any, Florida law requires treating them like pharmacies. Tarpon Springs currently permits dispensaries in pharmacy-eligible zones.
Are recreational cannabis stores allowed?
No. Florida only permits state-licensed medical marijuana treatment centers; recreational sales are not legal, so no recreational dispensary can operate in Tarpon Springs.
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