Maryland Cannabis Dispensary Licensing Statewide Standards

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.

Operating without a state cannabis license is a felony with penalties up to $50,000 and imprisonment; local zoning violations carry standard municipal fines.