Dispensary Zoning: New Rochelle vs White Plains
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between New Rochelle, NY and White Plains, NY?
New Rochelle and White Plains have similar restriction levels.
New Rochelle, NY
Westchester County
New Rochelle opted IN to allow adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries and on-site consumption under NY MRTA. Local zoning restricts dispensaries to specific commercial/industrial districts with distance buffers from schools and houses of worship.
View full New Rochelle rules →White Plains, NY
Westchester County
White Plains opted in to allow adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries and on-site consumption under NY MRTA (2021). Dispensaries limited to specific commercial zones with setbacks from schools, places of worship, and other dispensaries per local zoning amendments.
View full White Plains rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Rochelle | White Plains |
|---|---|---|
| Opt-in | Retail + consumption allowed | - |
| State Law | NY MRTA | - |
| School buffer | 500 ft | 500 ft typical |
| Worship buffer | 200 ft | - |
| Licensing | NY OCM | - |
| Retail | - | Allowed (opted in) |
| Zones | - | CB / B-6 commercial |
| Local tax | - | 3% city + 1% county |
| Licensed by | - | NYS OCM |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Rochelle FAQ
Are cannabis dispensaries allowed in New Rochelle?
Yes. New Rochelle opted in to adult-use retail. Dispensaries must be state-licensed and comply with local zoning buffers.
How far must a New Rochelle dispensary be from a school?
At least 500 feet from a school entrance under NY MRTA, plus 200 feet from a house of worship. Local zoning may add further restrictions.
Can I open a cannabis consumption lounge in New Rochelle?
Yes. New Rochelle opted in for both retail and on-site consumption under MRTA. You still need a state OCM license and must meet city zoning time/place/manner rules.
White Plains FAQ
Are cannabis dispensaries legal in White Plains?
Yes. The city opted in under MRTA and permits OCM-licensed adult-use retailers in designated commercial zones.
Who regulates cannabis dispensaries?
The NYS Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) licenses operators; the city controls zoning, hours, and signage through local ordinance.
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