Maryland Statewide Rule
Maryland Cannabis Dispensary Licensing Statewide Standards
Key Facts
- Statute
- Alcoholic Beverages 36-401
- Regulator
- Maryland Cannabis Administration
- School Setback
- 500 feet
- Local Bans
- Not permitted
- License Tiers
- Standard and micro
Summary
Maryland Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article Title 36 establishes statewide cannabis licensing through the Maryland Cannabis Administration, including 500-foot setbacks from schools and limits on local zoning power to ban licensed operations.
(b) A political subdivision may: (1) establish reasonable zoning requirements for cannabis businesses; and (2) decide how to distribute its allocation of revenue under § 2-1302.2 of the Tax - General Article.
Full Breakdown
Under MD Alcoholic Beverages 36-401 et seq., the Maryland Cannabis Administration issues dispensary, grower, processor, and incidental licenses. Dispensaries must be at least 500 feet from existing primary or secondary schools. Counties and municipalities cannot ban licensed cannabis businesses outright but may impose reasonable zoning, hours, and density restrictions consistent with state law. Local jurisdictions may not impose taxes or fees that discriminate against cannabis businesses compared with similar retailers. Permits require state licensure before local approvals.
Violations & Penalties
Operating without a state cannabis license is a felony with penalties up to $50,000 and imprisonment; local zoning violations carry standard municipal fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Maryland county ban all dispensaries?
How far must dispensaries be from schools?
Sources
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