Dispensary Zoning: Gilbert vs Phoenix
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Gilbert has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert zones cannabis dispensaries with buffer distances from schools, churches, and other sensitive uses. The Land Development Code Article 4.5 includes supplemental use regulations for marijuana facilities. Dispensaries must maintain minimum distances from sensitive uses as measured from the closest business walls. Gilbert has adopted both medical and recreational marijuana facility zoning standards.
View full Gilbert rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix zoning requires dispensaries to be at least 1,320 feet from schools, parks, community centers, and places of worship, and 500 feet from residentially zoned districts. Cultivation facilities must be 5,280 feet from similar facilities and 1,000 feet from residential zones. A use permit under Section 307 is required.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | Land Development Code Art. 4.5 | - |
| Buffer Distances | Required from schools, churches, sensitive uses | - |
| Measurement | From closest perimeter business walls | - |
| Medical & Recreational | Both facility types regulated | - |
| Zoning Districts | Permitted in specific commercial/industrial zones | - |
| School/Park Buffer | - | 1,320 ft minimum |
| Residential Buffer | - | 500 ft from residential zones |
| Cultivation Separation | - | 5,280 ft from same use type |
| Cultivation Residential | - | 1,000 ft from residential zones |
| Use Permit | - | Required per Section 307 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
Where can dispensaries operate in Gilbert?
Dispensaries are permitted in specific commercial and industrial zones with required buffer distances from schools, churches, and other sensitive uses.
How are buffer distances measured in Gilbert?
Distances are measured in a straight line from the closest perimeter business walls of the dispensary to the closest perimeter of the sensitive use.
Phoenix FAQ
Where can marijuana dispensaries be located in Phoenix?
Dispensaries must be at least 1,320 feet from schools, parks, community centers, and places of worship, and 500 feet from residentially zoned districts. They must be in a closed building — trailers, containers, and vehicles are prohibited.
What permits are needed for a dispensary?
A use permit per Section 307 of the zoning ordinance is required. The applicant must also obtain a certificate from the Arizona Department of Health Services and notify the area's Police Precinct Commander in writing. The use permit is reviewed after 365 days.
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