North Cowichan council has given first and second reading to a zoning bylaw amendment in anticipation of the upcoming legalization of cannabis by the Federal Government.
If adopted, it will require proposed retail cannabis businesses to apply for a site-specific zoning amendment.
“This zoning bylaw amendment is intended to ensure that council can consider, and the community can provide input, on the appropriateness of proposed cannabis retail locations on a case-by-case basis,” said Mayor Jon Lefebure.
Council may consider further amendments to the zoning bylaw once Federal and/or Provincial Governments establish regulations and criteria related to the sites of cannabis retail establishments.
The zoning bylaw amendment does not affect any existing federally-licensed cannabis production facilities currently operating under the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulation within the Municipality.
The proposed zoning bylaw amendment now proceeds to a public hearing.