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Council introduces ordinance to strengthen enforcement against illegal cannabis dispensaries
Summary
Fullerton council voted unanimously to introduce an ordinance that adds a police‑led enforcement chapter, allows immediate administrative fines consistent with AB 1684, and expands liability for property owners leasing space to illegal dispensaries.
The Fullerton City Council on April 7 introduced an ordinance to tighten enforcement tools against unlicensed commercial cannabis activity, aligning local code with recent state authority.
Police Chief (on the record during the council presentation) described the draft as an update that would allow immediate administrative fines for unlicensed cannabis operations and broaden enforcement options beyond civil remedies. He told council the state update (AB 1684) provides fines “up to $1,000 per violation and $10,000 per day” and allows property‑owner liability; the proposed municipal code would create a police‑led enforcement chapter and give the city tools to seek faster abatement and greater deterrence.
Public commenters were split: some speakers said the city’s earlier repeal of legal commercial sales left enforcement gaps and revenue opportunities, while others welcomed stronger enforcement to reduce illegal activity. Elijah Manasero told the council the proposed changes were “probably an improvement” over the current policy and urged decisive action to reduce recurring illegal dispensaries and the associated staff burden.
Council members approved introduction of the ordinance by unanimous roll call. The clerk read the ordinance title as an amendment adding chapter 7.18 to the Fullerton Municipal Code; staff said the ordinance adapts enforcement approaches used by nearby Costa Mesa and allows both administrative and criminal enforcement on a case‑by‑case basis.
What's next: The ordinance was introduced; further steps will follow the standard ordinance adoption process (additional reading and potential adoption on a future agenda).
