Dispensary Zoning: Lowell vs Newton
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Lowell, MA and Newton, MA?
Lowell and Newton have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell permits licensed marijuana establishments in designated zoning districts with a Host Community Agreement, buffer from schools, and Cannabis Control Commission approval.
View full Lowell rules →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton has opted to allow adult-use cannabis establishments with zoning restrictions including buffers from schools and a cap on the number of retail licenses permitted in the city.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing | CCC plus city approval | - |
| School Buffer | 500 feet default | 500 feet minimum |
| Host Agreement | Required under MGL c.94G s.3(d) | - |
| Impact Fee Cap | 3 percent for 8 years | - |
| Community Meeting | Required before license | - |
| Local Authorization | - | Yes - permitted with special permit |
| Retail Cap | - | 8 licenses |
| Host Impact Fee | - | Up to 3 percent of revenue |
| Operating Hours | - | 8 AM to 10 PM typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Can Lowell ban all dispensaries?
Because Lowell voted Yes on Question 4 in 2016, an outright ban requires a local ballot vote.
Where can a retail shop locate?
Only in zoning districts identified in the Lowell cannabis overlay; check the zoning map.
Newton FAQ
Are there marijuana dispensaries in Newton?
Yes. Newton permits adult-use cannabis retail with special permit approval in commercial zones, subject to a citywide cap.
How far must a Newton dispensary be from a school?
At least 500 feet from any K-12 public or private school, per state law. Newton zoning may impose additional separation requirements.
Compare other topics
See how Lowell and Newton compare on other ordinance categories.
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