Pursuant to RCW Title 69 and Chapter 314-55 WAC, the state has adopted rules establishing a state-wide regulatory and licensing program for medical and recreational marijuana production, possession, use, and sale or distribution. Despite these regulations, the city prohibits the licensing and operation of any business that is illegal under federal law. So long as the production, possession, use, sale, and distribution of marijuana remains illegal under federal law, no such businesses or use will be licensed to operate or locate in the city, and the provisions of this chapter shall not apply to allow such business or use to operate or locate in the city.
It is the intent of these regulations to apply only if federal law legalizes the production, possession, use, sale, and/or distribution of marijuana and to ensure that marijuana related business, operations, and uses are located and developed in a manner that: is consistent with the desired character and standards of this community and its neighborhoods; minimizes potential incompatibilities and impacts; and protects the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the city. Recognizing the voter approved right to establish certain types of medical marijuana operations and recreational marijuana businesses, it is also the intent of these regulations to provide reasonable access to mitigate the illicit marijuana market and the legal and personal risks and community impacts associated with it.
(Ord. 663 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2016)