Council to Update City Code for Medicinal Marijuana Sales, Distribution, Processing
Code Changes Help Integrate Sale, Processing
and Distribution Facilities Safely into Neighborhoods
[COLUMBUS, OH] As authorized by state law, the use of Medical
marijuana will be permitted by individuals that have one of 22 debilitating
diseases with a physician’s recommendation. Columbus City Council wants to make
sure Medical marijuana is seamlessly integrated into the community. On Monday,
December 3, 2018, Council will vote on legislation to define where medical
marijuana dispensaries can be located, proximity and operation requirements and
most importantly, a process to communicate with neighboring residents.
“Protecting the safety of our community while ensuring
individuals with qualifying conditions have access to the appropriate treatment
is paramount,” said Councilmember Priscilla Tyson. “Medical marijuana is a
natural health solution backed by science. Creating a strong foundation for
healthy communities is our charge as Council. It must be done responsibly.”
The legislation specifies zoning districts for medical marijuana
uses:
- Growers and processors would be allowed in the three
manufacturing districts;
- Dispensaries would be allowed in C4* commercial districts;
- Medical marijuana testing labs would be allowed in C2*
commercial districts.
The legislation also requires dispensaries to obtain a Board of
Zoning Adjustment (BZA) Special Permit to operate. The permit costs $1,900. To
receive the Special Permit the business must meet the following conditions:
- Maintain at least 500 feet from another dispensary;
- Notify by mail property owners that are within 250 feet of the
dispensary parcel;
- Present company background, opening date, operation schedule,
business emergency contact name and number to the local area commission or
civic group.
Failure to meet the specific requirements will result in denial
of the BZA Special Permit.
The state of Ohio legislature which approved medical marijuana
in 2016 has allocated 5 dispensaries for Franklin County. The current
state-approved locations are: 111 Vine Street, 1361 Georgesville Road, 656
Grandview Avenue, 2950 N. High Street and a property on Cassady Avenue at the
intersection of Johnstown Road. The Columbus Development Commission recommended
approval to Council during their October 11, 2018 meeting.
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*C4 is the city’s most prevalent commercial zoning district
allowing a large array of commercial uses including restaurant and retail.
*C2 is a more restrictive commercial zoning district allowing
office uses and medical testing labs. No restaurant or retail operations
are allowed in C2 districts.