The Washington State Liquor Control Board is working on implementation of I-502, which provides for the production, processing, and selling of marijuana pursuant to a state licensing scheme.
The State published updated draft rules on September 4, 2013, which can be found on the State’s website: www.liq.wa.gov
The Liquor Control Board is currently accepting comments on these rules. A public hearing is scheduled for October 9, with adoption scheduled to take place on October 16.
The State will begin accepting applications for producer, processor and retailer licenses for 30 days, beginning November 18, 2013.
There are no limits to the number of producer and processor licenses that will be issued, although the total amount of space allowed for marijuana production statewide is two million square feet. The number of retailer licenses will be limited to 334.
The proposed rules require that all licensees be located more than 1,000 feet from any school, playground, recreation center, child care center, public park, public transit center, library, or game arcade.
Licensees will also have to comply with all local state and zoning regulations.
For example, producer and processor licensees will have to make sure that the zoning of their proposed location allows for the production of this type of crop and/or its processing. Additionally, the buildings utilized by the licensee will need to comply with all local and state building codes.
Some cities, such as the City of Bellingham, have already determined the specific zoning districts in which licensees may operate.
In determining where to site these operations, it is important to consult the local land use laws and other development regulations to ensure compliance.
For more information on the siting of these facilities and the proposed implementation rules, please contact Heather Wolf.