Cannabis Information
Commercial Cannabis Applications
To apply for a Commercial Cannabis permit, please see the following.
On 12/8/2020, the City Council took action to reconsider the Commercial Cannabis program fees. As such, there is the possibility of changes in fees and could result in a change in the program. We are therefore pausing the application process to ensure applicants do not incur expenses should any proposed change negatively impact applicants. We will re-adjust the 45 day period after more clarity is provided by the City Council, and we will continue to post the application process to allow potential applicants to continue working towards a submittal, should they choose to con
California Licensing and Regulation
Following the passage of Proposition 64, the State of California established an extensive body of regulations for commercial cannabis activity in the state.
Adoption Process
Do not open a Commercial Cannabis business until you have the proper permits issued by the State of California and the City of Chico.
Currently, the Chico City Council acted to approve Commercial Cannabis Businesses within the City of Chico. The appropriate ordinances and resolutions include Ordinance - Commercial Cannabis Businesses, Ordinance - Cannabis Zoning, Resolution - Cannabis Businesses. The City Council’s action takes effect October 16, 2020.
Types of Businesses
- Types of Businesses ALLOWED: The following Commercial Cannabis uses will be allowed, but only in certain zoning districts in Chico: Testing Laboratory, Distributor, Manufacturer, Retailer-Delivery Only, and Retailer-Storefront.
- Types of Businesses NOT ALLOWED: The following Commercial Cannabis uses will NOT be allowed anywhere in Chico: Cultivation and Microbusinesses.
Allowed/Not Allowed Zones
Allowed Zones
The following are the only Zoning districts where Commercial Cannabis uses are allowed (subject to buffer zones from existing sensitive uses, e.g., schools, daycares, etc. ) Draft Sensitive Land Uses List**
Permit Information
Permits Required:
All Commercial Cannabis uses require 1) a Commercial Cannabis business permit issued by the City of Chico, and 2) a cannabis permit issued by the State of California. All uses also require a zoning clearance from the City of Chico’s Planning Division. Do not open a Commercial Cannabis business in Chico until you have obtained these permits and clearances.