Port Coquitlam is the latest city to begin accepting applications for proposed cannabis retail outlets.
On February 5th, Port Coquitlam City Council “updated the zoning bylaw to allow the city to consider potential sites for cannabis retail outlets in a similar way to how it regulates liquor sales locations” reads a statement.
Applications for proposed cannabis retail sites will be evaluated based on the newly adopted Cannabis Establishment Policy.
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“We’ve consulted the community extensively on this issue and have done our due diligence,” Mayor Brad West said.
“The checks and balances we’ve put in place will give Council control over any new outlets”.
The site-specific zoning bylaw amendment allows Council to consider potential community impacts, receive public feedback, and set conditions on a case-by-case basis.
Changes to the city’s smoking bylaw, which bans all types of smoking and vaping at local parks and trails and near schools, buildings, bus stops and other locations, ensures the impact of recreational cannabis use will be minimal.
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Cannabis Retail Store Applications
Cannabis outlets will need to be at least one kilometre away from each other. They’ll also need to be at least 250 metres away from schools, playgrounds, community centres and sports fields.
Council would also consider the potential impact on sensitive land uses such as childcare facilities, churches, shelters and recovery homes, as well as proximity to transportation services.
It’s also important to note that cannabis stores “may also be required to provide some kind of community benefit, such as education, programs or funding for community services”.
Port Coquitlam begins accepting rezoning applications from proposed cannabis retail outlets on February 6th.
All applications received between February 6th and March 6th will be reviewed concurrently. After March 6th, applications will be considered on an individual basis.
Canada is the first G7 country to legalize cannabis. The only other country that has done so is Uruguay.
For more information about the new cannabis retail regulations in Port Coquitlam, click here.
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