County holds hearing on ordinance amendments to align cannabis land‑use rules with new state law

Queen Anne’s County held a public hearing on County Ordinance 25‑01, a proposed code update to align local rules for licensed cannabis growers, processors and dispensaries with recent Maryland legislation (as referenced in staff materials: SB516 and HB805).

County planning staff explained that the ordinance would add and amend several code sections to ensure the county’s regulations are consistent with state law. Key local changes described by staff include: integrating growers and processors into comparable existing uses (growers compared to large poultry operations for buffering), a 20‑foot landscaping buffer around grower farms, a 300‑foot setback for grower buildings, and an odor‑abatement plan requirement that applicants must submit and demonstrate compliance with annually. Staff also said dispensary setbacks were adjusted to match state allowances (the state’s rule allows half‑mile spacing in some circumstances), and that the county’s existing medical and recreational cannabis provisions were previously reconciled but required another update after 2024 state action.

No members of the public registered to speak during the hearing, though staff noted two written comments on dispensaries — one opposing for addiction concerns and one supporting for medical convenience — that had been forwarded by the planning commission. Commission members asked clarifying questions; staff said the ordinance revisions were required to avoid preemption and potential litigation if county rules were stricter than the state. Commissioners did not vote at the hearing; staff said the matter would return for possible action at a later meeting.