LAKEPORT >> Marijuana legalization is creating changes not only in the usage of it, but where it can be grown and how it is regulated. Lake County is currently under the process of changing the Zoning Ordinance for the cultivation of marijuana.
The purpose of these updates is to create an environment that does not disturb the public peace or create safety issues but allow those who want to cultivate the ability to do so.
Rob Brown, Board of Supervisors representative for District 5, told the Planning Division to keep the District as an exclusionary area and have nothing marijuana related there.
“I have spoken with several groups within my District and have not come across any resistance to my position,” Brown said. “I feel that I am representing my District best by not allowing any commercial cultivation, dispensary or manufacturing within those boundaries.”
Lakeport will have its chance to give their public input on the updated Zoning Ordinance and where cultivation can take place. The Planning Commission will hold this hearing on Feb. 8 in Lakeport City Hall at 5 p.m.
During the meeting the Planning Commission will go over the differences between commercial and non-commercial cultivation, the number of plants a property is allowed, indoor and outdoor cultivation and the permit process. Any type of retail sales of the product will not be talked about.
Some regulations for the updated Zoning Ordinance include distances of 300 feet of any school, child care center, park or playground and may only be permitted in a detached, fully enclosed structure. Growing marijuana outdoors or inside of a resident’s home is still considered unlawful.
Mireya Turner, Associate Planner for the Community Development Department in Lakeport, said the Department has been meeting for a few months for Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AMUA) and Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act (MMRSA).
“Because we’re working with so many variables, it’s tough,” Turner said.
To make the process easier and better to understand, Turner said they have separated the legalization into two parts, which are commercial and non-commercial.
“Counties don’t get to tell the cities what to do,” she said. “They’re connected, but don’t get to make their regulations.”
Turner said once the Planning Commission hears the public input there are three processes that can happen. The Commission can send it forward to the City Council as is, send it forward with some changes, or send it back to the Development Board for them to make changes.
