(1)
In November 2012, Washington voters passed Initiative 502, which established precedent for the production, processing and retail sale of marijuana for recreational purposes. Pursuant to Chapter 69.50 RCW, the state has adopted rules establishing a state-wide regulatory and licensing program for marijuana uses (Chapter 315-55 WAC). It is therefore desirable for the city to establish local regulations to address such uses.
(2)
In April 2015, the Washington State Legislature amended the statutory definitions relating to medical marijuana in RCW 69.51A.010, and also eliminated the regulations applicable to "collective gardens" and adopted provisions allowing medical marijuana "cooperatives" effective July 1, 2016.
(3)
The purpose of these regulations is to establish where recreational marijuana producers, processors and retail outlets and medical marijuana cooperatives may locate in the city, and to describe the restrictions upon such uses.
(4)
These regulations are intended to ensure that state-licensed marijuana uses are located and developed in a manner that is consistent with the desired character and standards of the city of Port Orchard, minimizes potential incompatibilities and impacts, and protects the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of Port Orchard.
(5)
No part of this chapter is intended to or shall be deemed to circumvent federal law, or provide permission to any person or entity to violate federal law, including but not limited to the Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. Section 800 et seq., the Uniform Controlled Substances Act (Chapter 69.50 RCW), nor to otherwise permit any activity that is prohibited under either Act, or any other local, state or federal law, statute, rule or regulation. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to supersede Washington State law prohibiting the acquisition, possession, manufacture, sale or use of marijuana in any manner not authorized by Chapter 69.50 or 69.51A RCW. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to supersede legislation prohibiting persons from engaging in conduct that endangers others, or that creates a nuisance, as defined herein.
(6)
This chapter incorporates certain requirements and procedures set forth in Chapter 69.50 RCW and Chapter 314-55 WAC. Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, in the event of any conflict between the provisions of this chapter and the provisions of Chapter 69.50 RCW or Chapter 314-55 WAC, the more restrictive provision shall control.
(Ord. 019-17 § 18 (Exh. 1))