On August 6, 2024, Ohio officially opened its first recreational marijuana dispensaries, marking a significant milestone for marijuana enthusiasts across the state. The landscape for recreational marijuana is far from uniform, with local zoning rules, regulations, and moratoriums shaping how and where dispensaries can operate. Some cities have embraced the industry, while others remain hesitant, particularly regarding where these businesses can set up shop.
This article explores Ohio’s evolving approach to recreational marijuana zoning, highlights the differences between medical and recreational marijuana access, and explains why patients should still consider obtaining a medical marijuana card despite the access to recreational dispensaries.
Ohio’s Recreational Marijuana Rollout
Ohioans voted to legalize recreational marijuana in the November 2023 general election, with 52% of voters approving the measure. Following this historic vote, the state moved quickly to implement the new law, and by August 6, 2024, dual-use dispensaries, licensed to sell both medical and recreational marijuana, began serving customers. However, not all existing dispensaries have the license to sell recreational marijuana. As of now, only those with dual-use licenses are authorized to cater to both medical patients and recreational users.
This rollout has led to a patchwork of access across Ohio, as cities and counties navigate how to regulate or even prohibit the sale of recreational marijuana. Local governments have significant authority over zoning rules, meaning that recreational marijuana businesses may face varying restrictions depending on where they operate.
Zoning Rules and Moratoriums
Many Ohio cities are still figuring out how to integrate recreational marijuana dispensaries into their communities. Municipalities have the power to create zoning rules that limit where dispensaries can be located, often restricting them to specific commercial or industrial zones. In some cases, local governments have enacted moratoriums, temporarily halting the licensing or opening of new recreational marijuana businesses until zoning laws are established.
Findlay is one Ohio city currently considering how to handle recreational marijuana businesses. The city’s Planning & Zoning Committee has been tasked with making zoning recommendations for dispensaries, and discussions have leaned toward allowing them in C2 (general commercial) and I-1 (light industrial) zones under conditional use.
This means that businesses would need approval from the City Planning Commission before opening. Additionally, there are discussions about expanding the “bumper” zone around sensitive areas like schools, churches, and playgrounds from the state-mandated 500 feet to as much as 1,500 feet.
While Findlay has enacted a 12-month moratorium on recreational marijuana, there is support among city leaders for eventually allowing dispensaries, provided proper zoning regulations are in place. This mirrors actions taken by other Ohio municipalities, which are grappling with how to balance the new industry with community concerns.
Other Cities Implementing Moratoriums
Several other cities and counties in Ohio have opted to place moratoriums on recreational marijuana businesses as well. For example, many townships in Hancock County have enacted bans or temporary halts on recreational dispensaries. These pauses give local governments time to review the state’s regulatory framework and create localized rules that reflect community values.
State law permits municipalities and townships to limit or outright ban adult-use marijuana operators within their jurisdictions. This power means that even though recreational marijuana is legal statewide, access may be restricted in certain areas depending on local decisions.
Why You Still Need a Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio
Despite recreational marijuana's legalization in Ohio, medical marijuana cards still offer key benefits. These include cost savings through tax exemptions, higher purchase limits, and priority dispensary access. Medical users avoid the 10% excise tax on recreational marijuana, resulting in significant savings for frequent users. They can also purchase larger quantities - up to 8 ounces over 90 days - ensuring consistent access for those managing chronic conditions.
As recreational sales increase, medical card holders often enjoy shorter wait times through dedicated hours or separate lines at dispensaries. This is particularly valuable for those with mobility issues or needing quick relief. Medical dispensaries also typically offer a wider range of products, including higher-potency options and specialized formulations not always available in the recreational market. This provides greater flexibility in managing specific medical conditions.
While recreational marijuana is now an option, the medical program's advantages make it a worthwhile consideration for patients in Ohio.
Where Are Dispensaries Allowed?
Ohio law gives local governments broad discretion to regulate where marijuana dispensaries can operate. As mentioned earlier, cities like Findlay are considering limiting recreational dispensaries to specific commercial or industrial zones. Additionally, cities and townships have the option to expand the state-mandated 500-foot buffer zone around schools, churches, and playgrounds.
In urban areas like Cleveland and Columbus, zoning regulations tend to be more relaxed, allowing for greater accessibility to recreational marijuana. However, smaller towns and rural areas may impose stricter zoning laws, potentially limiting access for residents in these regions.
It’s important for consumers and business owners to stay informed about local zoning decisions, as these rules will shape the availability of recreational marijuana across Ohio.
Navigating Ohio’s Recreational Marijuana Landscape
As Ohio continues to roll out recreational marijuana, local governments are playing a pivotal role in determining how the industry develops. Zoning rules, moratoriums, and buffer zones will dictate where dispensaries can operate and how accessible they are to consumers. While recreational marijuana offers a new avenue for marijuana access, patients should strongly consider maintaining or obtaining a medical marijuana card.
The benefits of Ohio’s medical marijuana program, including lower taxes, higher purchase limits, and better access, make it the right choice for individuals who rely on marijuana for their health and well-being. With recreational marijuana still in its infancy, the medical marijuana card remains a crucial tool for patients seeking affordable, consistent, and effective marijuana treatment.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Ohio continues to expand its medical marijuana program and make residents’ lives easier by passing new progressive legislation. The addition of new qualifying conditions means that many more people will now be eligible for their medical card.
If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you qualify!
You need your medical card to access any of Ohio’s medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to get your card with Ohio Marijuana Card!
In Ohio, there are many conditions that may make you eligible for medical marijuana, and we hope the program continues to expand by adding more conditions soon! If you have questions about whether you qualify, we can help with that too!
In order to visit a dispensary in the State of Ohio, you will need your medical marijuana card. With telemedicine, you can even get your card from the comfort of your own home!
If you don’t already have your card, we can help! You can even have your appointment and recommendation on the same day!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today to see if you qualify.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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