Rising Sun Town Council enacts cannabis business zoning regulations

The Town of Rising Sun has taken significant steps to regulate cannabis businesses following new state legislation. During a meeting on December 23, 2024, town officials outlined an ordinance that establishes strict guidelines for the operation of cannabis businesses within the community, reflecting both state mandates and local concerns.

The ordinance permits cannabis businesses to operate solely in designated light industrial areas, aligning with state regulations. However, it prohibits the establishment of cannabis dispensaries that allow on-site consumption, ensuring that these businesses do not coexist with areas frequented by children, such as parks, schools, and daycare facilities. Specifically, cannabis businesses must maintain a distance of at least 500 feet from such locations and cannot be situated within 100 feet of residential properties.

The ordinance also stipulates that only one cannabis dispensary can operate within a half-mile radius, preventing clustering of these businesses in close proximity. This measure aims to balance community interests while adhering to state laws that limit the number of dispensaries in each councilmatic district. Rising Sun's regulations will require that any new cannabis business complies with Cecil County's requirement that each district must have at least one dispensary before another can open in a district that already has one.

These regulations reflect the town's commitment to managing the impact of cannabis businesses on the community while ensuring compliance with state laws. As Rising Sun moves forward with these guidelines, officials emphasize the importance of protecting children and maintaining the integrity of residential areas. The town's proactive approach aims to create a framework that allows for responsible cannabis commerce while addressing community concerns.