Buffer Zones: Mesa vs Scottsdale
How do buffer zones rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Mesa and Scottsdale have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa Zoning Ordinance Section 11-3-12 requires marijuana establishments to sit at least 1,320 feet (one quarter mile) from any public or private K-12 school, with additional separation from churches, parks, and existing dispensaries.
View full Mesa rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Revised Statutes section 36-2806 bars marijuana dispensaries within 1320 feet of an existing public or private school. The state buffer applies in unincorporated Maricopa County, and Title XIII county zoning may add larger setbacks from residential zones and parks.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Mesa code | Zoning Ordinance 11-3-12 | - |
| School buffer | 1,320 feet (quarter mile) | 1320 feet |
| Drive-through | Prohibited | - |
| State licensor | Arizona DHS | - |
| Measurement | Shortest pedestrian route | - |
| Statute | - | ARS 36-2806 |
| Residential setback | - | 500 feet (county) |
| Dispensary spacing | - | 1000 feet |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Does the buffer apply to home daycares?
Mesa's buffer specifically targets K-12 schools, churches, public parks, and other dispensaries; small home daycares are not listed as triggering uses under Section 11-3-12.
Can a Mesa dispensary add a drive-through?
No. Mesa's marijuana zoning rules expressly prohibit drive-through service windows and on-site consumption lounges, regardless of state license type.
Scottsdale FAQ
Does the buffer apply to day care centers in Maricopa County?
Not under ARS 36-2806, which lists only K-12 schools. Maricopa County Planning may still impose discretionary day care or park setbacks during the Conditional Use Permit hearing.
What if a school opens near an existing dispensary?
The dispensary is grandfathered under ARS 36-2806(C) and may keep operating at the original site. License renewal continues so long as no relocation or expansion is requested.
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