Dunedin vs Tarpon Springs
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Dunedin, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Dunedin has fewer restrictions than Tarpon Springs.
Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin allows medical marijuana dispensaries anywhere a pharmacy may locate, as required by Florida Statute 381.986. The city dropped its initial moratorium in 2018 and instead controls dispensaries through hours, loitering, and other operational rules.
View full Dunedin 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Florida Statute 381.986, Tarpon Springs must regulate medical marijuana dispensaries the same as pharmacies; the city repealed its 2017 moratorium and now permits MMTCs in zoning districts where pharmacies are allowed.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 | Dunedin | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Dispensaries allowed | Yes, like pharmacies | - |
| State preemption | Fla. Stat. 381.986 | - |
| School buffer | 500 feet under state rule | - |
| Recreational sales | Prohibited statewide | - |
| Local controls | Hours, loitering, parking | - |
| 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| Moratorium | - | Repealed in 2018 |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.
Dunedin FAQ
Can Dunedin ban medical marijuana dispensaries?
It could ban them entirely, but if it allows any, state law requires they be permitted wherever pharmacies are allowed, with no stricter zoning. Dunedin chose to allow them.
How close to a school can a dispensary be?
Florida law generally requires Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers to be at least 500 feet from a public or private school, measured from the property lines.
Are recreational dispensaries allowed?
No. Florida law currently authorizes only medical marijuana dispensing through licensed MMTCs. Recreational adult-use sales remain prohibited as of 2026.
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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