Findlay, Ohio, is moving closer to establishing cannabis dispensaries in the city following a recent vote by the City Council. The council approved a zoning ordinance that creates a framework for the retail sale of cannabis, marking a significant step in the process.
The ordinance allows for a cannabis overlay district, which permits up to two adult-use cannabis dispensaries to operate in four designated areas of Findlay. The City Council voted overwhelmingly in favor of this ordinance, reflecting strong community support for legalized cannabis.
Councilman Grant Russel, a supporter of the ordinance, highlighted that the overlay district’s guidelines are stricter than the state’s requirements. He noted that dispensaries must be located at least 1,000 feet away from libraries, schools, churches, playgrounds, and daycares, rather than the 500 feet mandated by Ohio law. Businesses must also navigate the city planning process to secure a conditional-use permit, which can be revoked if necessary.
Russel explained that the ordinance will take effect within the next 30 days, allowing retail establishments to apply for permits at the municipal building. He expressed optimism about the timeline, mentioning that company representatives were already present during the discussions, indicating that applications for conditional-use permits could begin as soon as the ordinance is in effect.
Despite the recent progress, Russel emphasized that much work remains. Dispensaries will still need to comply with state regulations and licensing requirements to operate legally. This vote has set the stage for potential cannabis sales in Findlay, responding to the community’s support for legalization. Russel pointed out that 53% of Findlay’s citizens and 69% of precincts backed the initiative, noting that a rejection would have led to a permanent ban on cannabis sales in the city. The ordinance was influenced by the results of a state-wide initiative in November 2023.
