Dispensary Zoning: Redmond vs Seattle
How do dispensary zoning rules compare between Redmond, WA and Seattle, WA?
Redmond and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond allows licensed cannabis retailers in limited commercial zones under RMC 21.08 with a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, parks, and child care per RCW 69.50.331. Retailers need a WSLCB license.
View full Redmond rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle regulates cannabis retail locations through SMC Chapter 6.500 and land use code provisions, requiring state licensing plus city business license approval with buffer zones from schools, playgrounds, and other sensitive uses.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redmond | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State License | WSLCB required | - |
| Buffer | 1,000 ft from sensitive uses | - |
| Permitted Zones | General/Manufacturing commercial | - |
| Retail Cap | Per WSLCB allocation | - |
| State Law | RCW 69.50.331 | - |
| Governing Code | - | SMC 6.500 – Cannabis Business regulations |
| School Buffer | - | 1,000 feet from schools, playgrounds, parks, child care centers |
| Downtown Buffer | - | 250 feet separation in Downtown zones north of Yesler Way |
| State License Required | - | WA Liquor and Cannabis Board retail license |
| Production Zones | - | Cannabis production limited to Industrial zones (IG1, IG2, IB) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redmond FAQ
Where can cannabis shops open in Redmond?
Only in designated commercial zones under RMC 21.08, with a 1,000-foot buffer from schools, parks, libraries, and other sensitive uses per RCW 69.50.331.
How do I get a cannabis license in Redmond?
First apply to the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board for a retail license. Then work with Redmond Planning to verify zoning compliance and secure a business license.
Seattle FAQ
Where can cannabis stores operate in Seattle?
Cannabis retailers can operate in most commercial and mixed-use zones but must maintain 1,000-foot buffers from schools, playgrounds, parks, libraries, child care centers, and recreation facilities. Production and processing are limited to Industrial zones. The total number of retail licenses is capped by the state Liquor and Cannabis Board.
What permits do I need to open a cannabis business in Seattle?
You need a Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board license, a Seattle business license, and a certificate of occupancy or use permit from SDCI confirming the location meets zoning requirements. The city also requires compliance with local administrative rules governing cannabis business operations.
Compare other topics
See how Redmond and Seattle compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool