Dispensary Zoning: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
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 →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Cannabis retail is regulated by the LA Dept of Cannabis Regulation under LAMC Articles 4 and 5. Storefronts must be in C1-C5, CM, or M1-M3 zones and 700+ feet from schools, parks, libraries, daycares, and other dispensaries. Both city (DCR) and state licenses are required. Social equity applicants receive priority in license lotteries. Proposition M priority EMMDs are exempt from new distance requirements.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Total Allowed | 27-35 dispensaries citywide | - |
| School Buffer | 1,000 ft | - |
| Park/Library Buffer | 600 ft | - |
| Code | LBMC Ch. 5.92, §5.92.420 | - |
| Zones | - | C1-C5, CM, M1-M3 |
| Buffer Distance | - | 700 ft from sensitive uses |
| Licenses | - | City DCR + state required |
| Social Equity | - | Priority in license lottery |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 104.04, 105.02 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Los Angeles FAQ
Are dispensaries legal in LA?
Yes. LA has 800+ licensed dispensaries. Check DCR's website for licensed locations near you.
What is the Social Equity Program?
It prioritizes cannabis licenses for people from communities most impacted by the war on drugs.
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