An application and operational requirements preview for new cannabis retailers interested in opening businesses in Santa Monica is now available online to help prepare businesses for the Jan. 26, 2026, opening date for applications.
Interested applicants can now review requirements and gather necessary materials to prepare for the application launch date. Cannabis retail applications will be accepted and processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
These prepared materials follow the September council approval of a comprehensive cannabis program allowing new retailers in the adult-use cannabis space, as well as updating the process, permits and compliance requirements for cannabis retail and delivery businesses.
Part of the comprehensive program, a social equity component allows for lowering barriers to entry for qualifying applicants. This component was developed with robust community input and backed by data-driven analysis to document the impact of cannabis criminalization in Santa Monica and the systemic barriers that have prevented affected communities and individuals from accessing opportunities within the legal cannabis industry.
The sales of adult-use cannabis products are subject to the cannabis business tax at 4 percent of gross receipts. The tax was approved as Measure HMP by 66 percent of Santa Monica voters in 2022 and increased by resolution in 2024. The tax rate may be adjusted by the council but cannot exceed 10 percent without voter approval.
For more information, application materials and instructions, visit https://www.santamonica.gov/programs/cannabis-in-santa-monica.
Edited by SMDP Staff