Yellowstone County officials are poised to revise regulations governing marijuana businesses following a recent study that revealed no significant issues between these businesses and nearby residential areas. The findings suggest that the county should eliminate the separation requirements that currently restrict marijuana business locations from being near residential zones.

The proposed changes will allow existing marijuana businesses that do not meet these separation requirements to continue operating as legal nonconforming locations. This provision also includes the possibility for these businesses to rebuild through a special review process if they face catastrophic events, such as fires or floods.

Additionally, the study recommends that marijuana cultivation be permitted in agricultural zones, which are abundant in the county and suitable for indoor cultivation practices. This adjustment aims to enhance community benefits while ensuring that the regulations are adapted to reflect the realities of the local business environment.

These recommendations are set to transition interim regulations into permanent ones, marking a significant shift in how Yellowstone County approaches marijuana business operations. The county commissioners will consider these findings and proposed changes in their upcoming discussions, with the potential for a more accommodating regulatory framework that supports local businesses while maintaining community standards.