Dispensary Zoning: El Monte vs Topanga
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between El Monte, CA and Topanga, CA?
El Monte has fewer restrictions than Topanga.
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 →Topanga, 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 Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Licenses | 6 maximum (all issued) | - |
| Applications | Currently closed | Not being accepted |
| Tax | Cannabis Business Tax (Ch. 3.30) | - |
| Voter Approved | 71.48% in 2020 | - |
| Commercial Cannabis | - | Prohibited entirely |
| Dispensaries | - | Banned in all zones |
| Penalties | - | Civil and criminal for violations |
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.
Topanga 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.
Compare other topics
See how El Monte and Topanga compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool