LCB adopts permanent cannabis-advertising rules under Senate Bill 5206; changes take effect July 4

The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board on June 3 approved a permanent CR-103 rule package to implement Senate Bill 5206, clearing the way for new limits and options for retail cannabis advertising.

Jeff, a representative of the Director's Office, told the board that the package updates WAC 314.55 to allow up to four exterior signs of up to 1,600 square inches on retail premises, permits smaller informational signs, and allows up to two larger off-premises signs subject to local rules. He said the rules also bar advertising that portrays alcohol, nicotine or tobacco use or associates cannabis with motor vehicles. "If approved today, these permanent rules will be filed right away with the Office of the Code Reviser and the permanent rule changes will take effect on Saturday, 07/04/2026," Jeff said.

The Director's Office delayed presentation from the May meeting to consider stakeholder clarifications about sign measurement and trade-name signage that may include logos or artwork so long as the images do not depict cannabis products. The board voted unanimously to accept the package and file the permanent rules.

Board members signaled that stakeholder input received during the public-comment period influenced the final language; the Director's Office noted the public hearing was held April 23 and that last-minute comments prompted further internal review before filing. The board's approval means retailers and local jurisdictions should expect the rule changes to be effective July 4, 2026.