Federal Way vs Redmond
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Redmond, WA?
Federal Way and Redmond have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way bans all cannabis retail, production, and processing businesses citywide under FWRC 19.280.010 following a permanent ban adopted by City Council in December 2015. No licensed dispensaries operate in the city.
View full Federal Way rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond allows licensed cannabis retailers in limited commercial zones under RMC 21.08 with a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, parks, and child care per RCW 69.50.331. Retailers need a WSLCB license.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Retail | Banned citywide, FWRC 19.280.010 | - |
| Production | Banned citywide | - |
| Ban Adopted | December 2015, permanent | - |
| State Buffer | 1,000 ft from schools | - |
| State License | - | WSLCB required |
| Buffer | - | 1,000 ft from sensitive uses |
| Permitted Zones | - | General/Manufacturing commercial |
| Retail Cap | - | Per WSLCB allocation |
| State Law | - | RCW 69.50.331 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I open a marijuana dispensary in Federal Way?
No. Federal Way permanently banned cannabis retail, production, and processing under FWRC 19.280.010 in December 2015. You would need to locate in a neighboring city that permits the use and obtain a WSLCB license.
Where is the closest legal dispensary to Federal Way?
Licensed retailers operate in Tacoma, Fife, and Lakewood to the south, and in parts of unincorporated King County. Use the WSLCB retailer locator at lcb.wa.gov to find the nearest open dispensary.
Redmond FAQ
Where can cannabis shops open in Redmond?
Only in designated commercial zones under RMC 21.08, with a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, parks, libraries, and other sensitive uses per RCW 69.50.331.
How do I get a cannabis license in Redmond?
First apply to the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board for a retail license. Then work with Redmond Planning to verify zoning compliance and secure a business license.
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