General Information

Cannabis Health and Safety Information

Learn more about cannabis (marijuana) use, health risks, safety considerations, and resources to support a cannabis use disorder.

Cannabis Permitting Guide

The County of San Luis Obispo, through adoption of various ordinances, has determined that certain commercial cannabis activities may have an impact on the area in which they are located. These types of uses require the approval of a land use permit, which sets conditions for the use's establishment and operation. Approval of a land use permit only entitles the use itself; separate permits or licenses may also be required including any proposed construction or grading activities.

It is recommended that applicants contact the following agencies during the application process:

Caregiver Use and Cultivation

Any primary caregiver for a qualified patient who has a recommendation for medical cannabis is allowed to cultivate up to six (6) plants indoors in a legally established dwelling or structure that is fully enclosed and secured. The cannabis can only be provided to qualified patients of the primary caregiver. 

Land Use & Zoning

What are you allowed to do on your property? Use this page to find out what cannabis activities your property is zoned for. Cannabis activities are allowed with the appropriate permits in the following categories: Agriculture (AG), Commercial Services (CS), Industrial (IND), Residential Rural (RR) and Rural Lands (RL). 

Local Taxes

On June 5, 2018, San Luis Obispo County Voters approved Measure B-18, which created a Cannabis Business Tax (CBT) in the unincorporated areas of San Luis Obispo County. The Tax Collector division of the County's Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector (ACTTC) Department manages the Cannabis Business Tax.

Enforcement

The County of San Luis Obispo has adopted a Cannabis Hearing Process regarding nuisance abatement and permit revocation related to land use violations.

Personal Use and Cultivation

On November 8, 2016, California voters passed Prop 64, which allowed adults 21 years or older to legally grow, possess and use cannabis. The County of San Luis Obispo allows residents to grow up to six (6) plants for personal use indoors in a legally established dwelling or structure that is fully enclosed and secured. Personal cultivation must take place at the person's full-time residence.