Coquitlam now has a draft policy for cannabis sellers and producers.
Today (Tuesday), the city’s committee-in-council received a proposed framework that, if approved by council this fall, will guide where cannabis can be sold as well as the conditions for production and processing facilities.
Coquitlam’s draft policy comes after a public and stakeholder consultation earlier this year via an online survey; it gained 1,255 responses.
Under the plan, applications would be determined on a case-by-case basis.
City staff are recommending that no more than two stores be located in these five neighbourhoods: Burquitlam, Lougheed, Austin Heights, Maillardville and City Centre.
As well, pot shops will have to be:
- at least 150 m away from schools, 100 m away from parks and 100 m away from other cannabis stores
- be separated from places where youth and at-risk people are located
- fit into the neighbourhood
And extra points will be given to applicants that have a comprehensive business plan and previous company experience, and who provide of a community benefit.
