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Commission recommends City Council allow up to three cannabis delivery offices with buffers, signage limits and police access
Summary
The Planning Commission voted 6–0 to recommend that City Council adopt a zoning amendment to allow up to three non‑storefront cannabis delivery offices (medicinal and adult use), with a 600‑foot buffer around sensitive sites, 20‑sq‑ft signage limits, and mirrored police right‑of‑entry authority.
The Planning Commission on Feb. 10 voted 6–0 to recommend that City Council amend Paso Robles Municipal Code Chapter 21.6 to permit up to three non‑storefront cannabis delivery offices (non‑storefront retail) in designated zoning districts and to adopt related operational limits.
Staff presented the ordinance language to allow delivery offices (which are distinct from storefront dispensaries) in the Riverside Quarter (RSC) and the Commercial Light Industrial (C3) zoning districts, subject to conditional‑use permit review. Substantive provisions in the proposed amendment include a 600‑foot separation from sensitive uses (schools, daycares and parks), a cap of three CUPs citywide for non‑storefront cannabis businesses, a maximum on‑site sign allowance of 20 square feet, and a provision granting the Police Department rights of entry that mirror state Department of Cannabis Control inspection authority.
“Katie summarized that the zoning amendment would allow up to three non‑storefront retail businesses and would add a 600‑foot separation to public parks in addition to schools and daycares,” staff said during presentation.
Commissioners asked whether the buffer radius can be increased or decreased (outside counsel Jill Tranley confirmed cities can adopt larger or smaller distances with appropriate findings) and whether the cap of three CUPs could create local concentration or anti‑competitive outcomes. Staff noted existing CUPs are relatively concentrated and that any new CUP would come before the Planning Commission for discretionary review, at which time concentration and compatibility can be considered. Several public commenters, including owners/operators of local delivery services and property owners seeking tenants, urged the city to permit local delivery businesses so tax revenue and regulated product remain in Paso Robles; other residents raised health and clustering concerns and asked for robust enforcement.
The commission’s motion recommended the City Council adopt the ordinance as drafted and also asked council to consider broader options for the total number of delivery offices in its future deliberations. The commission’s recommendation now goes to City Council for a noticed public hearing and final decision.
Key provisions summarized by staff: up to three permitted non‑storefront delivery CUPs; a 600‑foot buffer from schools, daycares and parks; a 20‑sq‑ft cap on on‑site signage; and police right‑of‑entry provisions mirroring state authority. Staff recommended public notice to interested parties and the city will publish a council hearing notice with additional outreach.
