City of Monrovia
Home MenuCannabis Regulations
As California's marijuana laws have evolved over the past few decades, we have generally followed federal marijuana/cannabis regulations that prohibit the use, cultivation, and production of cannabis or products containing cannabis. However, in response to recent changes in California's laws, both through voter initiative and legislative actions, cities and counties are required to adopt regulations that establish provisions that define how cannabis will be regulated within their jurisdictions.
State law defines what a city can and cannot prohibit. Basically, cities are not required to allow any commercial activity within their boundaries. However, local jurisdictions have to allow residents to grow marijuana at their homes - within certain boundaries.
In October 2017, the Monrovia City Council adopted an ordinance that implements a balanced set of regulations regarding cannabis. In summary, Monrovia's ordinance does the following:
- Commercial uses: Prohibits all commercial cannabis uses, such as retail sales or commercial cultivation. However, state licensed businesses that do cannabis testing or fall under the category of research and development would be permitted. No retail sales, manufacturing, or other commercial activity is allowed.'
- Personal/residential uses: Consistent with state regulations, Monrovia's ordinance allows a person to grow up to 6 plants at their home. Plants have to be grown in an enclosed space, such as a green house, accessory structure, or house. Plants are not permitted to be grown outside. No permit or license is required.
All of Monrovia's regulations are contained in Ordinance No. 2017-05, available for review below.
Although not covered by the City's regulations, here is some other important information:
- State law requires a person to be 21 or over in order to legally possess, transport and/or buy marijuana.
- It is illegal to smoke marijuana in public places.
- In addition to following local laws, all cannabis businesses must be licensed by the state of California.
For more information, contact the Planning Division at planning@monroviaca.gov.
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