Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace finalize cannabis zoning plans amid Snohomish County regulations

The Lynnwood City Council held a work session on April 21, 2025, focusing on local zoning regulations and cannabis retail locations. The meeting began with a presentation that included a map displaying various cannabis retail sites within and around Lynnwood, marked by green pins. These pins indicated locations in neighboring areas, including the incorporated Snohomish County, the City of Edmonds, and Mountlake Terrace.

The discussion highlighted that both Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace had designated specific zones for cannabis retailers without implementing buffer reductions. In contrast, the map reflected the existing regulations in Snohomish County, which allowed certain retailers to operate under grandfathering provisions. This means that these businesses were established before the county updated its rules to require a 25-foot distance between cannabis retailers.

Council members expressed the importance of understanding the zoning decisions made by neighboring jurisdictions to inform Lynnwood's approach. Council member Coelho acknowledged the value of this information for future planning and decision-making regarding cannabis retail in the city.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for continued dialogue about local regulations and the implications of neighboring cities' zoning practices. Further discussions are expected as the council considers how to proceed with its own cannabis retail policies.