Dispensary Zoning: El Monte vs Long Beach
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between El Monte, CA and Long Beach, CA?
El Monte has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte allows up to 6 commercial cannabis retail licenses (EMMC 5.18.050). All 6 licenses have been issued and the application period is closed. Cannabis business tax applies per Ch. 3.30.
View full El Monte 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 | El Monte | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Licenses | 6 maximum (all issued) | - |
| Applications | Currently closed | - |
| Tax | Cannabis Business Tax (Ch. 3.30) | - |
| Voter Approved | 71.48% in 2020 | - |
| 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.
El Monte FAQ
Are dispensaries legal in El Monte?
Yes. El Monte is one of the few San Gabriel Valley cities licensing cannabis retail.
What are the buffer requirements?
Dispensaries must be 600+ feet from schools, parks, day cares, and youth facilities.
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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