Greetings,
This month, I would like to take a moment to recognize the legal cannabis entrepreneurs in Los Angeles. Over the last eight years, I have had the honor of getting to know the very brave and resilient people who are part of the legal cannabis industry. Being a part of this industry is inherently challenging and it comes with a very unique set of obstacles. Through it all, I recognize the passion of each cannabis business leader and honor their persistence to succeed despite the issues they confront. It deserves attention, recognition, and support.
Without a legal cannabis industry, we have fewer protections that keep cannabis out of the hands of children; no control over public health and safety standards; and no way to integrate this business model in a way that supports the Los Angeles community. Additionally, it’s important to know that just over 40% of licensed cannabis businesses are owned by social equity individuals, folks most negatively impacted by past cannabis prohibition laws.
For these reasons, Angelenos should support the legal industry by either patronizing these businesses if you are a consumer, or advocating for a safe and equitable marketplace for the greater good.
Here are two easy ways to do so:
- Utilize DCR’s Map of Licensed Retailers to find legal retailer
- If you suspect illegal cannabis business activity, report it through the DCR Complaint Portal
Finally, in recognition of Black History Month, it is important to acknowledge that progress in cannabis policy cannot be discussed without recognizing the disproportionate impacts that historic enforcement practices have had on Black and Brown communities. The transition from prohibition to legalization reflects a complex legacy in which communities of color experienced significant and lasting harms. As the regulated industry continues to evolve, it remains essential to acknowledge this history and to uphold ongoing commitments to equity, transparency, and inclusive participation in the legal marketplace.
Best,
Michelle Garakian
Executive Director
Department of Cannabis Regulation
In September, DCR begins the 2027 record and license renewal process. While this is many, many months away, there are important steps to take NOW in order to successfully renew for 2027 in a timely manner.
By September 1, 2026, all licensed cannabis businesses must obtain a Public Health Permit issued by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH). To obtain a Public Health Permit, a Licensee must first pay for, and submit plans for review to the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) that include all Commercial Cannabis Activities and accessory uses on the Business Premises. After LADBS reviews the plans, the Licensee will be issued corrections and a set of clearances that will require that the Licensee submit plans to the LACDPH to obtain a Public Health Permit. These processes may take months to complete and waiting is no longer an option in order to meet the DCR deadline for renewal.
Public Health Permit plans are reviewed on a first come, first served basis. As more plans are submitted, wait times increase. For this reason, start the process now, if you have not done so already.
To learn more about obtaining the Public Health Permit please click here and here. For additional information on the LADBS requirements, click here. Please look out for additional resources that DCR will make available soon.
If you need help navigating City permitting processes, take advantage of the City of Los Angeles Restaurant & Small Business Express Program (RSBEP) that helps facilitate the approval process for restaurants and other small businesses. When you request assistance from the RSBEP, a Case Manager will be assigned to the business to assist various stages of the development process.
Don’t fret if you missed last month’s DCR Annual Compliance Inspection Webinar for non-storefront cannabis businesses. The recording is online and can be viewed here.
Please be advised that licensing accounts have been updated with compliance inspection fee information.
When should I expect the Annual Compliance Inspection? Inspections are happening now and through 2026. Businesses will be notified about the date of an inspection. Please regularly check your email for notices from DCR about Annual Compliance Inspections. DCR will conduct inspections as scheduled whether or not the date is confirmed. |
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| California Supreme Court Rules on Open Container Violations & Cannabis Coalition Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Revisit Gun Ownership Ban for Cannabis Consumers |
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