Mahwah vs Paramus
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Mahwah, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Mahwah and Paramus have similar restriction levels.
Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Mahwah Township Council opted out of permitting cannabis businesses, prohibiting all six classes of cannabis establishments within the township. Subsequent retail proposals have been rejected, and dispensaries are not authorized to operate anywhere in Mahwah under current zoning.
View full Mahwah rules →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus prohibits both recreational and medicinal cannabis dispensaries throughout the Borough, except within the Highway Corridor Commercial (HCC) Zone District.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mahwah | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Opt-out adopted | July 8, 2021 | - |
| Classes prohibited | All six license types | - |
| Retail dispensaries | Not permitted | - |
| Buffer suggestion | 1,000 feet from schools | - |
| Authorizing ordinance | - | Paramus Ord. 2021-01 |
| Allowed zone | - | Highway Corridor Commercial only |
| Code section | - | Chapter 429-19 |
| Local transfer tax | - | 2% on medicinal cannabis |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mahwah FAQ
Can a cannabis dispensary open in Mahwah?
No. Mahwah opted out of CREAMMA in July 2021 and prohibits all six classes of cannabis establishments. Retail proposals since then have failed Council approval.
Does the Mahwah opt-out affect personal cannabis use?
No. The opt-out only blocks licensed cannabis businesses from operating in Mahwah. Adult personal use, possession, and consumption rules are governed by New Jersey state law.
Paramus FAQ
Can a cannabis dispensary open anywhere in Paramus?
No. Paramus permits dispensaries only in the Highway Corridor Commercial (HCC) Zone District. Recreational and medicinal dispensaries are otherwise prohibited Borough-wide.
Does Paramus add a local cannabis tax?
Yes. Ordinance 2021-21 imposes a 2% transfer tax on receipts from medicinal cannabis sales by a permitted dispensary to qualified patients or their caregivers.
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