Cannabis Regulations in Mendocino County, CA (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Mendocino County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Mendocino County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Dispensary Zoning

Unincorporated Mendocino County has not opted out of cannabis retail: Section 20.243.060 allows retail and dispensary uses with a Zoning Clearance in the C2, I1, I2, and PI districts, while every rural-residential, single-family, and suburban district shows "Not Allowed" on the permit table. Dispensaries also cannot sit within 600 feet of a school, park, church, or youth facility under Section 20.243.050(B).

Mendocino County Cannabis Dispensary Zoning

Significant Restrictions

Mendocino County Code Sec. 20.243.060 (Permit Types and Zoning Districts)

All cannabis facilities shall be permitted in accordance with this Section. All new cannabis facilities shall obtain approval from other State and Local agencies with permitting jurisdiction. Cannabis facilities may be allowed with an approved Zoning Clearance or Administrative Permit as required for the zoning district in which the cannabis facility is located as listed in Table 1, below... — ...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Buffer Zones

Mendocino County bans outdoor and mixed-light cannabis cultivation within 1,000 feet of any school, park, or youth-oriented facility that existed when the license was first applied for, under County Code Section 10A.17.040(A)(1). Additional setbacks keep grows at least 100 feet from neighboring homes and 50 feet from any adjoining parcel line.

Mendocino County Cannabis Buffer Zone Rules

Significant Restrictions

Mendocino County Code Sec. 10A.17.040(A) (General Limitations on Cultivation of Cannabis)

(A)The cultivation of cannabis in Mendocino County, in any amount or quantity by any entity, shall not be allowed in the following areas:(1)Within one thousand (1,000) feet of a Youth-oriented facility, a School, or a Park as defined herein that is in existence at the time a CCBL is initially applied for.(2)Outdoors or using mixed light within one hundred (100) feet of any occupied legal reside...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

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