Although medical marijuana was legalized in Colorado in 2000, cities were given the option to opt-out of zoning for medical marijuana dispensaries and businesses. While some cities are still holding out on the patients in need, Commerce City is reinstating the allowance of medical marijuana businesses. On Monday night, a regulatory structure was approved which all businesses must be licensed to operate under.

Business owners must apply for a conditional permit, and then for a business license. In addition to having an approved license and permit, applicants must sign waivers that release the city from any liability for injuries or damages in the instance state or federal agencies seek arrest or prosecution. Though the use and sale of marijuana is legal for the treatment of specific medical conditions under Colorado law, it remains a federal crime.

The ordinance creates rules for regulating dispensaries, cultivation facilities, and the production and manufacturing of medical marijuana products. Some of the new rules are relevant to only one type of business. For example, medical marijuana cultivation facilities will be required to have building inspector approved systems that will control odors. The list of rules also includes strict regulations on advertising. Signs cannot use the word marijuana without the word medical. Signs are also not permitted to be situated outside of the business’s location, "or in any other manner which is visible from the roadways, sidewalks, or other public areas."

The licensing program takes effect July 1. The vote was passed on an 8-1 vote, with at-large councilman Steven Douglas voting no.

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Read more: Commerce City to allow medical marijuana business - The Denver Post http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_20891416/commerce-city-allow-medical-marijuana-business#ixzz1ySgKCum7
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