HomeMy WebLinkAbout10232024 Planning & Zoning Work Session Laydown - Chair CommentsOctober 23, 2024 P&Z Work Session re: Marijuana Establishments
Possible code amendments submitted by Carol Griswold
Comments in italics
Existing code in black, amendments in blue
A. Code amendments
1. Expand definition of marijuana rather than state "Alaska Statute 17.38.900" for clarity.
Change format of definition to delete repetition of word being defined.
SCC 15.10.140 Definitions
54. M 'Juana. Marijuana m ans "marijuana" as that term is defined in Alaska Statute 17.38.900
and any amendments thereto.
B.
54. Marijuana. Marijuana as defined by Alaska Statute 17.38.900 and any amendments thereto,
means all parts of the plant of the genus cannabis whether growing or not, the seeds thereof,
the resin extracted from any part of the plant, and every compound, manufacture, salt,
derivative, mixture, or preparation of the plant, its seeds, or its resin, including marijuana
concentrate; "marijuana" does not include fiber produced from the stalks, oil or cake made
from the seeds of the plant, sterilized seed of the plant that is incapable of germination, the
weight of any other ingredient combined with marijuana to prepare topical or oral
administrations, food, drink, or other products, or industrial hemp as defined in AS 03.05.100;
2. Revise definition to include both standard and limited cultivation facilities, expand
definitions to detail activities, and correct 3 AAC 305.405 typo as there is no 305.405:
(verify with attorney)
B.
55. Marijuana establishment. Marijuana establishment means a marijuana cultivation facility, a
marijuana testing facility, a marijuana product manufacturing facility, or a retail marijuana store
as those terms are defined in AS 17.38.900 and any amendments thereto.
a. Marijuana cultivation facility. Marijuana cultivation facility means an entity registered
to cultivate, harvest prepare, and package, store, and label marijuana and to sell marijuana to
licensed retail marijuana stores, to licensed marijuana product manufacturing facilities, and to
other licensed marijuana cultivation facilities, but not to consumers. At the initial stage of
operations, holders of this license can plant any number of immature plants and possess any
number of seeds for cultivation. They can also grow 12 or fewer mature, non -flowering
marijuana plants and use them as mother plants.
1. Limited marijuana cultivation facility. A limited marijuana cultivation facility
AAC 306.405(c), except that it must have fcwcr than 500 square feet under cultivation.
1. Limited marijuana facility. A licensed limited marijuana facility has the same
privileges and prohibitions set forth in 3 AAC 306.405 (a) (b) (c) and can perform the same
1
activities as a licensed standard marijuana cultivation facility except it must have fewer than 500
square feet under cultivation.
2. Standard marijuana cultivation facility. A licensed standard marijuana
cultivation facility has the privileges and prohibitions set forth in 3 AAC 306.405 (a) (b) (c). The
facility is allowed to transport marijuana in compliance with laid -down rules. The facility can
conduct in-house testing for their facility's use and also provide samples to licensed marijuana
testing facilities for testing.
b. Marijuana product manufacturing facility. Marijuana-pTe � ct a ��
means an entity registered to purchase harvested marijuana from a cultivation facility; extract,
process, manufacture, prepare, and package marijuana products; and transfer or sell marijuana
and marijuana products to other marijuana product manufacturing facilities, a marijuana testing
facility, or and to retail marijuana stores, but not to consumers.
c. Marijuana testin facilit . means an entity registered to
analyze and certify the safety and potency of marijuana.
d. Retail marijuana store. Retail marijuana store means an entity registered to purchase
marijuana from marijuana cultivation facilities, to purchase marijuana and marijuana products
from marijuana product manufacturing facilities, and to sell marijuana and marijuana products
to consumers.
Add definitions here and delete from 15.10.226 H5; these are listed in Land Uses Allowed
Table. Consider using less circular definitions.
e. Marijuana product manufacturing, hazardous materials means a marijuana product
manufacturing facility or a marijuana concentrate manufacturing facility using hazardous
materials in the marijuana manufacturing process and meeting all other criteria in this Code and
in Alaska Statutes and Administrative Codes.
f. Marijuana product manufacturing, light use mean a marijuana facility not using
hazardous materials in the manufacturing.
B.
56. Marijuana products. Marijuana products means concentrated marijuana products and
marijuana products that are comprised of marijuana and other ingredients and are
intended for use or consumption, such as, but not limited to, edible products,
ointments, and tinctures.
3. Add and renumber:
B.
57. Marijuana, personal use means adults age 21 and over can legally possess, grow, process,
and transport up to six plants in their home with up to three being mature, flowering plants,
except that not more than twelve marijuana plants, with six or fewer being mature flowering
plants may be present in a single dwelling regardless of the number of adults 21 or older
residing in the dwelling as per AS §17.38.020.
2
4. Add SCC Land Uses Allowed Table for clarity. Add additional restricted locations.
15.10.226 Land Uses Allowed
H. Marijuana establishments as defined in SCC §15.10.140 B55 are allowed in accordance with
tablc 15.10.225 SCC Land Uses Allowed Table 15.10.226 of this chapter subject to the following:
1. The facility owner or operator has submitted a license application to the State of
Alaska for the corresponding type of marijuana establishment prior to operation, and maintains
a current license from the state at all times the facility is in operation.
2. Marijuana establishments shall not to be located within 500 feet of the entrance of
any building where religious ceremonies are regularly held, a correctional facility, recreational
facility or youth center licensed by the state or local government, park, playground, athletic
field, childcare facility, housing facility owned by a public housing authority, homeless and
transient shelter, habilitative care facility, residential districts RM, R1, R2, R3, UR, OR, or within
1000' of any school. The distance specified in this subsection must be measured by the shortest
pedestrian route from the public entrance of the building in which the licensed premises would
be located to the outer parcel boundaries of the school, recreation or youth facility or to the
main public entrance of the building in which religious services are regularly held, or the
correctional facility. The burden of proof demonstrating that the facility meets the required
separation distances is the responsibility of the marijuana establishment owner or operator.
3.A11 marijuana establishments shall meet all other criteria in this Code and in Alaska
Statutes and Administrative Codes.
5. 15.10.226 Land Uses Allowed Table: separate entries for standard and limited cultivation
facilities. Suggest leaving zones blank for discussion.
Zoning Districts
Uses
Marijuana establishment, limited cultivation facility
Marijuana establishment, standard cultivation facility
Marijuana establishment product manufacturing facility, hazardous materials
Marijuana establishment, product manufacturing facility, non -hazardous materials
Marijuana personal use
Marijuana establishment, retail store
Marijuana establishment, retail store with on -site consumption endorsement, indoor
Marijuana establishment, retail store with on -site consumption endorsement, outdoor
Marijuana establishment, testing facility
B. Discussion topics:
1. A local government may enact ordinances or regulations not in conflict with AS § 17.38.210
or with regulations enacted pursuant to AS § 17.38.210, governing the time, place, manner, and
number of marijuana establishment operations. Will Seward require restrictions?
3
2. A local government may prohibit the operation of marijuana cultivation facilities, marijuana
product manufacturing facilities, marijuana testing facilities, or retail marijuana stores through
the enactment of an ordinance by a voter initiative. Will Seward prohibit or allow any of the
above?
3. Will Seward prohibit or allow walk-up or drive -through exterior window pick-up for retail
marijuana stores?
4. Will Seward prohibit or allow outdoor consumption at a retail marijuana retail?
5. Will Seward prohibit or allow marijuana dispensaries to pass out free samples of products?
6. If allowed, will Seward regulate the size of the samples?
https://www. alaskasnewssource. com/2023/10/06/new-regulations-startinq-oct-8-would-allow-
dispensaries-qive-free-samples/
7. Will Seward amend its drug testing policy to allow legal marijuana use for employees who are
not under federal or state regulations such as police officers, workers in public transportation,
or with commercial driver's licenses who are regulated by the US Department of
Transportation?
8. Will drug testing for marijuana be amended to only allow saliva testing?
9. Is being under the influence while at work a terminable offense?
https://www. adn. com/alaska-news/anchoraqe/2023/10/08/anchoraqe-assembly-to-consider-
chanqes-to-drug-testinq-policy-allowing-legal-marijuana-use-for-many-city-workers/
10. Will Seward amend how the separation distance is measured?
https://www. m uni. orq/Departments/OCPD/Marijuana/Documents/AO%202016-
144(S)%20Marijuana%20Separation%20Distances. pdf
11. Should transient merchants on -site of a marijuana establishment be limited to sales of
products for adults 21 and older?
12. Anchorage levies a 5% sales tax on the retail sales of marijuana and marijuana products.
Should Seward?
4
Key:
O — Use Permitted Outright
H — Home Occupation
C — Use Requires Conditional Use Permit
P — Use Requires Administrative Permit
Blank — Use Prohibited
Zoning Districts
Principally Residential
Principally Commercial
Principally Public
Uses
RR
R1
R2
R3
UR
OR
AC
HC
CB
I
RM
INS
P
Marijuana
establishment,
standard cultivation
facility
Marijuana
establishment,
limited cultivation
facility
Marijuana
establishment,
product
manufacturing
facility (hazardous
materials)
Marijuana
establishment,
product
manufacturing
facility (non-
hazardous materials)
Marijuana, personal
use
Marijuana
establishment, retail
store
Marijuana
establishment, retail
store with on -site
consumption
endorsement; indoor
Marijuana
establishment, retail
store with on -site
consumption
endorsement; outdoor
Marijuana
establishment, testing
facility
October 23, 2024 P&Z Work Session re: Marijuana Establishments
Possible code amendments submitted by Carol Griswold
Comments in italics
Existing code in black, amendments in blue
Supporting notes and sources provided for potential amendments
A. Code amendments
1. Expand definition of marijuana rather than state "Alaska Statute 17.38.900" for clarity.
Source: AS 17.68.900 definitions
https://law. justia. com/codes/alaska/title-17/chapter-38/section-17-38-900/
Change format of definition to delete repetition of word being defined.
SCC 15.10.140 Definitions
54. M 'Juana. Marijuana m ans "marijuana" as that tcrm is defined in Alaska Statute 17.38.900
and any amendments thereto.
B.
54. Marijuana. Marijuana as defined by Alaska Statute 17.38.900 and any amendments thereto,
means all parts of the plant of the genus cannabis whether growing or not, the seeds thereof,
the resin extracted from any part of the plant, and every compound, manufacture, salt,
derivative, mixture, or preparation of the plant, its seeds, or its resin, including marijuana
concentrate; "marijuana" does not include fiber produced from the stalks, oil or cake made
from the seeds of the plant, sterilized seed of the plant that is incapable of germination, the
weight of any other ingredient combined with marijuana to prepare topical or oral
administrations, food, drink, or other products, or industrial hemp as defined in AS 03.05.100;
2. Revise definition to include both standard and limited cultivation facilities, expand
definitions to detail activities, and correct 3 AAC 305.405 typo as there is no 305.405:
(verify with attorney)
B.
55. Marijuana establishment. Marijuana establishment means a marijuana cultivation facility, a
marijuana testing facility, a marijuana product manufacturing facility, or a retail marijuana store
as those terms are defined in AS 17.38.900 and any amendments thereto.
a. Marijuana cultivation facility. Marijuana cultivation facility means an entity registered
to cultivate, prepare, and package, store, and IabF marijuana and to sell marijuana to
Iicensea retail marijuana stores, to licensed marijuana product manufacturing facilities, and to
other licensed marijuana cultivation facilities, but not to consumers. At the initial stage of
operations, holders of this license can plant any number of immature plants and possess any
number of seeds for cultivation. They can also grow 12 or fewer mature, non -flowering
marijuana plants and use them as mother plants.
1. Limited marijuana cultivation facility. A limited marijuana cultivation facility
AAC 306.405(c), except that it must have fcwcr than 500 square feet under cultivation.
1
1. Limited marijuana facility. A licensed limited marijuana facility has the same
privileges and prohibitions set forth in 3 AAC 306.405 (a) (b) (c) and can perform the same
activities as a licensed standard marijuana cultivation facility except it must have fewer than 500
square feet under cultivation.
2. Standard marijuana cultivation facility. A licensed standard marijuana
cultivation facility has the privileges and prohibitions set forth in 3 AAC 306.405 (a) (b) (c). The
facility is allowed to transport marijuana in compliance with laid -down rules. The facility can
conduct in-house testing for their facility's use and also provide samples to licensed marijuana
testing facilities for testing.
b. Marijuana product manufacturing facility. Marijuana-pTe � �� a ��
means an entity registered to purchase harvested marijuana from a cultivation facility; extract,
process, manufacture, prepare, and package marijuana products; and transfer or sell marijuana
and marijuana products to other marijuana product manufacturing facilities, a marijuana testing
facility, or and to retail marijuana stores, but not to consumers.
c. Marijuana testingfacilit . means an entity registered to
analyze and certify the safety and potency of marijuana.
d. Retail marijuana store. Retail marijuana store means an entity registered to purchase
marijuana from marijuana cultivation facilities, to purchase marijuana and marijuana products
from marijuana product manufacturing facilities, and to sell marijuana and marijuana products
to consumers.
Source:
Anchorage Municode Chapter 21.05 Use Regulations
https://www. m uni. orq/departments/ocpd/planninq/pro jects/t21/t21 %20adopted%20ch
apters%20and%20ordinances/chapter%205. pdf
Add definitions here and delete from 15.10.226 H5; these are listed in Land Uses Allowed
Table. Consider using less circular definitions.
e. Marijuana product manufacturing, hazardous materials means a marijuana product
manufacturing facility or a marijuana concentrate manufacturing facility using hazardous
materials in the marijuana manufacturing process and meeting all other criteria in this Code and
in Alaska Statutes and Administrative Codes.
f. Marijuana product manufacturing, light use mean a marijuana facility not using
hazardous materials in the manufacturing.
Source:
AS §17.38.020
https://casetext. com/regulation/alaska-administrative-code/title-3-commerce-
community-and-economic-development/part-19-alcoholic-beverage-control-
board/chapter-306-marijuana-control/article-4-marijuana-cultivation-facilities/section-
3-aac-306410-limited-marijuana-cultivation-facility-privileges-and-prohibited-acts
2
NIOSH Workplace Safety and Health Hazards
Cannabis industry exposures and hazards can be chemical, biological, or related to safety
and well-being.
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/cannabis/about/index.html
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Marijuana occupational safety
and health
https://cdphe. colorado. gov/workplace-safety/resources-an d-links/marijuana-
occupational-safety-and-healthGuide to Worker Safety and Health in the Marijuana
Industry
https://drive. google. com/file/d/OByonCYTyaB73UjU4TkpYRjdEZEU/view?pli=1&resource
key=0- cOL-mxCuUVUuHfqSkhzTQ
Biological hazards: mold, sensitizers/allergens (dermal and respiratory)
Chemical hazards: CO2, CO, Indoor Air Quality/Volatile organic compounds (VOC),
Pesticides/Insecticides/Fungicides, Disinfectants/Cleaning chemicals,
Nutrients/Corrosives
Flammable/Combustible Liquids, Compressed Gas
Note additional information on cultivation facility activities for understanding the broad
scope of activities, incorporated above:
https://alaskastatecannabis. orq/licensing/cultivation#whatarethedifferenttypesofcultiva
tionlicensesinalaska
Cultivation licenses
1. Standard Marijuana Cultivation License - This license authorizes its holder to
cultivate, harvest, package, store, and label marijuana. At the initial stage of
operations, holders of this license can plant any number of immature plants
and possess any number of seeds for cultivation. They can also grow 12 or
fewer mature, non flowering marijuana plants and use them as mother
plants. A standard marijuana cultivation license permits a business to sell
marijuana to licensed marijuana product manufacturers, licensed retail
cannabis stores, or other licensed cultivators. It also allows them to transport
marijuana in compliance with laid down rules. They can conduct in-house
testing for their facility's use and also provide samples to licensed marijuana
testing facilities for testing
2. Limited Marijuana Cultivation License: This license is issued to a business to
perform the same activities as a licensed standard marijuana cultivation
facility. However, license holders are limited to no more than 500 square feet
of cultivation area
Source:
3
https://casetext. com/regulation/alaska-administrative-code/title-3-commerce-
community-and-economic-development/part-19-alcoholic-beverage-control-
board/chapter-306-marijuana-control/article-4-marijuana-cultivation-
facilities/section-3-aac-306400-marijuana-cultivation-facility-license-required
B.
56. Marijuana products. Marijuana products, means concentrated marijuana products and
marijuana products that are comprised of marijuana and other ingredients and are
intended for use or consumption, such as, but not limited to, edible products,
ointments, and tinctures.
3. Add and renumber:
B.
57. Marijuana, personal use means adults age 21 and over can legally possess, grow, process,
and transport up to six plants in their home with up to three being mature, flowering plants,
except that not more than twelve marijuana plants, with six or fewer being mature flowering
plants may be present in a single dwelling regardless of the number of adults 21 or older
residing in the dwelling as per AS §17.38.020.
Source:
https://casetext. com/statute/alaska-statutes/title-17-food-and-drugs/chapter-
1738-the-requlation-of marijuana/section-1738020-personal-use-of
marijuana#: text=(1)%20possessinq%2C%20usinq%2C,produced%20by%20the%
20plants%20on
https://www. adn. com/alaska-news/2016/07/29/heres-how-many-cannabis-
plants-alaskans-can-now-legally-possess-at-home/
Clarifies that up to 12 plants are allowed if there are two adults over 21 in
household.
4. Add SCC for clarity and correct Table number. Add additional restricted locations.
15.10.226 Land Uses Allowed
H. Marijuana establishments as defined in SCC §15.10.140 B55 are allowed in accordance with
tablc 15.10.225 SCC Land Uses Allowed Table 15.10.226 of this chapter subject to the following:
1. The facility owner or operator has submitted a license application to the State of
Alaska for the corresponding type of marijuana establishment prior to operation, and maintains
a current license from the state at all times the facility is in operation.
2. Marijuana establishments shall not to be located within 500 feet of the entrance of
any building where religious ceremonies are regularly held, a correctional facility, recreational
facility or youth center licensed by the state or local government, park, playground, athletic
field, childcare facility, housing facility owned by a public housing authority, homeless and
transient shelter, habilitative care facility, residential districts RM, R1, R2, R3, UR, OR, or within
1000' of any school. The distance specified in this subsection must be measured by the shortest
4
pedestrian route from the public entrance of the building in which the licensed premises would
be located to the outer parcel boundaries of the school, recreation or youth facility or to the
main public entrance of the building in which religious services are regularly held, or the
correctional facility. The burden of proof demonstrating that the facility meets the required
separation distances is the responsibility of the marijuana establishment owner or operator.
3.A11 marijuana establishments shall meet all other criteria in this Code and in Alaska
Statutes and Administrative Codes.
5. 15.10.226 Land Uses Allowed Table: separate entries for standard and limited cultivation
facilities. Suggest leaving zones blank for discussion.
Zoning Districts
Uses
Marijuana establishment, limited cultivation facility
Marijuana establishment, standard cultivation facility
Marijuana establishment product manufacturing facility, hazardous materials
Marijuana establishment, product manufacturing facility, non -hazardous materials
Marijuana personal use
Marijuana establishment, retail store
Marijuana establishment, retail store with on -site consumption endorsement, indoor
Marijuana establishment, retail store with on -site consumption endorsement, outdoor
Marijuana establishment, testing facility
B. Discussion topics:
1. A local government may enact ordinances or regulations not in conflict with AS § 17.38.210
or with regulations enacted pursuant to AS § 17.38.210, governing the time, place, manner, and
number of marijuana establishment operations. Will Seward require restrictions?
2. A local government may prohibit the operation of marijuana cultivation facilities, marijuana
product manufacturing facilities, marijuana testing facilities, or retail marijuana stores through
the enactment of an ordinance by a voter initiative. Will Seward prohibit or allow any of the
above?
3. Will Seward prohibit or allow walk-up or drive -through exterior window pick-up for retail
marijuana stores?
4. Will Seward prohibit or allow outdoor consumption at a retail marijuana retail?
5. Will Seward prohibit or allow marijuana dispensaries to pass out free samples of products?
6. If allowed, will Seward regulate the size of the samples?
https://www. alaskasnewssource. com/2023/10/06/new-regulations-starting-oct-8-would-allow-
dispensaries-give-free-samples/
5
7. Will Seward amend its drug testing policy to allow legal marijuana use for employees who are
not under federal or state regulations such as police officers, workers in public transportation,
or with commercial driver's licenses who are regulated by the US Department of
Transportation?
8. Will drug testing for marijuana be amended to only allow saliva testing?
9. Is being under the influence while at work a terminable offense?
https://www. adn. com/alaska-news/anchorage/2023/10/08/anchoraqe-assembly-to-consider-
chanqes-to-druq-testinq-policy-allowinq-legal-marijuana-use-for-many-city-workers/
10. Will Seward amend how the separation distance is measured?
https://www. m uni. orq/Departments/OCPD/Marijuana/Documents/AO%202016-
144(S)%20Marijuana%20Separation%20Distances. pdf
11. Should transient merchants on -site of a marijuana establishment be limited to sales of
products for adults 21 and older?
12. Anchorage levies a 5% sales tax on the retail sales of marijuana and marijuana products.
Should Seward?
C. Notes on local restriction and prohibition:
https://law. justia. com/codes/alaska/title-17/chapter-38/section-17-38-210/
AS § 17.38.210. Local control.
(a) A local government may prohibit the operation of marijuana cultivation facilities, marijuana
product manufacturing facilities, marijuana testing facilities, or retail marijuana stores through
the enactment of an ordinance or by a voter initiative...
(b) A local government may enact ordinances or regulations not in conflict with this chapter or
with regulations enacted pursuant to this chapter, governing the time, place, manner, and
number of marijuana establishment operations. A local government may establish civil penalties
for violation of an ordinance or regulation governing the time, place, and manner of a
marijuana establishment that may operate in such local government.
(c) A local government may designate a local regulatory authority that is responsible for
processing applications submitted for a registration to operate a marijuana establishment
within the boundaries of the local government. The local government may provide that the local
regulatory authority may issue such registrations should the issuance by the local government
become necessary because of a failure by the board to adopt regulations pursuant to AS
17.38.190 or to accept or process applications in accordance with AS 17.38.200.
(d) A local government may establish procedures for the issuance, suspension, and revocation
of a registration issued by the local government in accordance with (f) of this section or (g) of
6
this section. These procedures shall be subject to all requirements of AS 44.62 (Administrative
Procedure Act).
(e) A local government may establish a schedule of annual operating, registration, and
application fees for marijuana establishments, provided, the application fee shall only be due if
an application is submitted to a local government in accordance with (f) of this section and a
registration fee shall only be due if a registration is issued by a local government in accordance
with (f) of this section.
Page 42 of June 18, 2024 P&Z work session packet:
3 ACC 306.370 Onsite consumption endorsement for retail marijuana stores
(a) Unless prohibited by local or state law...
Page 44
(4) if outdoors...
Page 45
(4) for an outdoor marijuana consumption area...
Page 46
3 AAC 306. Walk-up or drive -through exterior window pick-up for retail marijuana stores
(a) Unless prohibited by local law...
D. Other City Codes to consider
1. Palmer, AK code
Chapter 5.32 Marijuana Businesses
5.32.010 Definitions
5.32.030. Standards for marijuana businesses
5.32.040 Marijuana license application review process
https://palmer.municipal.codes/PMC/5.32.030
Chapter 8.11 Marijuana use and prohibitions
Chapter 17.08 Definitions
17.08.291 Marijuana cultivation facility
17.08.292 Marijuana manufacturing facility
17.08.294 Marijuana retail store
17.08.294 Marijuana testing facility
2. Mat -Su Borough
17.60.150 General standards for marijuana related facilities
https://codes.findlaw.com/ak/title-17-food-and-drugs/ak-st-sect-17-38-
200/#:^':text=(e) %201f%20a %20loca I%20govern ment,preference%20or%20preferences%20for%
20registration.
AS 17.38.200 Marijuana establishment registrations
7
(e) If a local government has enacted a numerical limit on the number of marijuana
establishments and a greater number of applicants seek registrations, the board shall solicit and
consider input from the local regulatory authority as to the local government's preference or
preferences for registration.
8
Revised October 23, 2024 P&Z Work Session re: Marijuana Establishments
Possible code amendments submitted by Carol Griswold
Comments in italics
Existing code in black, amendments in blue, green additions from work session packet.
Note that Seward MuniCode Title 15 is not yet updated for Marijuana Establishments.
SCC Title 8, Business Regulations and Licensing duplicates Title 15 re Marijuana
Establishments 8.25.010 Definitions, and 8.25.015 Compliance with state laws and
regulation. Any changes in Title 15 should be mirrored in Title 8, and cross-referenced.
• Soldotna Code (page 27) uses "business" instead of "establishment" which makes more
sense to me. "Marijuana business" means any and all business, acts, or commerce
subject to registration or licensure pursuant to Alaska Statute Chapter 17.38.
• Suggest creation of separate section (Chapter, Article, Section) for all marijuana -related
items in Title 15 instead of buried in Land Uses Allowed definitions. Homer has an
extensive Chapter including Scope and Intent (page 34-35)
A. Code amendments
1. Expand definition of marijuana rather than state "Alaska Statute 17.38.900" for clarity.
Change format of definition to delete repetition of word being defined.
SCC 15.10.140 Definitions
54. M 'Juana. Marijuana m ans "marijuana" as that tcrm is defined in Alaska Statute 17.38.900
and any amendments thereto.
B.
54. Marijuana. Marijuana as defined by Alaska Statute 17.38.900 and any amendments thereto,
means all parts of the plant of the genus cannabis whether growing or not, the seeds thereof,
the resin extracted from any part of the plant, and every compound, manufacture, salt,
derivative, mixture, or preparation of the plant, its seeds, or its resin, including marijuana
concentrate; "marijuana" does not include fiber produced from the stalks, oil or cake made
from the seeds of the plant, sterilized seed of the plant that is incapable of germination, the
weight of any other ingredient combined with marijuana to prepare topical or oral
administrations, food, drink, or other products, or industrial hemp as defined in AS 03.05.100;
2. Revise definition to include both standard and limited cultivation facilities, expand
definitions to detail activities, and correct 3 AAC 305.405 typo as there is no 305.405:
(verify with attorney)
B.
55. Marijuana establishment. Marijuana establishment means a marijuana cultivation facility, a
marijuana testing facility, a marijuana product manufacturing facility, or a retail marijuana store
as those terms are defined in AS 17.38.900 and any amendments thereto. No outdoor storage
of marijuana or hazardous substances shall be allowed for any marijuana establishments.
(Soldotna Code page 23)
1
a. Marijuana cultivation facility. Marijuana cultivation facility means an entity registered
to cultivate, prepare, aild package, store, and label marijuana and to sell marijuana to
license,. retail marijuana stores, to licensed marijuana product manufacturing facilities, and to
other licensee. marijuana cultivation facilities, but not to consumers. At the initial stage of
operations, holders of this license can plant any number of immature plants and possess any
number of seeds for cultivation. They can also grow 12 or fewer mature, non -flowering
marijuana plants and use them as mother plants. Marijuana consumption is prohibited.
(Anchorage Code page 17) Marijuana cultivation is prohibited in all zoning districts. (Soldotna
Code page 24).
1. Limited marijuana cultivation facility. A limited marijuana cultivation facility
AAC 306.405(c), except that it must have fewer than 500 square feet under cultivation.
1. Limited marijuana facility. A licensed limited marijuana facility has the same
privileges and prohibitions set forth in 3 AAC 306.405 (a) (b) (c) and can perform the same
activities as a licensed standard marijuana cultivation facility except it must have fewer than 500
square feet under cultivation.
2. Standard marijuana cultivation facility. A licensed standard marijuana
cultivation facility has the privileges and prohibitions set forth in 3 AAC 306.405 (a) (b) (c). The
facility is allowed to transport marijuana in compliance with laid -down rules. The facility can
conduct in-house testing for their facility's use and also provide samples to licensed marijuana
testing facilities for testing.
b. Marijuana product manufacturing facility. Marijuana product manufacturing facility
means an entity registered to purchase harveste, marijuana from a cultivation facility; extract,
process, manufacture, prepare, and package marijuana products; and transfer or sell marijuana
and marijuana products to other marijuana product manufacturing facilities, a marijuana testing
facility, orate retail marijuana stores, but not to consumers. Marijuana consumption is
prohibited. (Anchorage Code page 17)
c. Marijuana testing facility. Marijuana testing facility means an entity registered to
analyze and certify the safety and potency of marijuana with all the privileges and prohibitions
described in 3 AAC 306.600- 3 ACC 603.675. Direct retail sales to consumers is prohibited.
Marijuana consumption is prohibited. (Anchorage Code page 17)
d. Marijuana retail sales establishment Retail marijuana store. Retail marijuana store
means an entity registered to purchase marijuana from marijuana cultivation facilities, to
purchase marijuana and marijuana products from marijuana product manufacturing facilities,
and to sell marijuana and marijuana products to consumers.
Add whether accessory drive-throughs are permitted or prohibited, outdoor storage or
display of products prohibited, and any other use -specific standards. (Anchorage Code page 18)
Add definitions here and delete from 15.10.226 H5; these are listed in Land Uses Allowed
Table. Consider using less circular definitions.
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e. Marijuana product manufacturing, hazardous materials means a marijuana product
manufacturing facility or a marijuana concentrate manufacturing facility using hazardous
materials in the marijuana manufacturing process and meeting all other criteria in this Code and
in Alaska Statutes and Administrative Codes.
f. Marijuana product manufacturing, light use means a marijuana facility not using
hazardous materials in the manufacturing process.
...a use engaged in the manufacture of marijuana products, predominantly from
previously prepared material, of finished products or parts that, because of the nature of its
equipment, operations, processes, materials, and products, has little or no potential of creating
noise, vibration, dust, smoke, fumes, odor, glare, or other environmental impacts on
surrounding properties or uses. (Modified from SCC 15.10.140 Definitions B. 53)
B.
56. Marijuana products. Marijuana products means concentrated marijuana products and
marijuana products that are comprised of marijuana and other ingredients and are
intended for use or consumption, such as, but not limited to, edible products,
ointments, and tinctures.
3. Add and renumber:
B.
57. Marijuana, personal use means adults age 21 and over can legally possess, grow, process,
and transport up to six plants in their home with up to three being mature, flowering plants,
except that not more than twelve marijuana plants, with six or fewer being mature flowering
plants may be present in a single dwelling regardless of the number of adults 21 or older
residing in the dwelling as per AS §17.38.020. A local government may not prohibit the personal
use and possession of marijuana and marijuana products as authorized under AS 17.38.020.
58. Marijuana establishment, retail store with accessory walk-up/drive-through means an
exterior window for pick-up as regulated by 3 Alaska Administrative Code §306.380.
(https://casetext.com/regulation/alaska-administrative-code/title-3-commerce-community-and-
economic-development/part-19-alcoholic-beverage-control-board/chapter-306-marijuana-
control/article-3-retail-marijuana-stores/section-3-aac-306380-walk-up-or-drive-through
exterior -window -pick -up -for -retail -marijuana -stores)
59. Marijuana: Conditional Use Permit (see Anchorage Code page 19) (This CUP is more
detailed and specific than the usual CUPs).
60. Marijuana Establishments: Variances (See Anchorage Code page 22)
61. Marijuana use in public prohibited. Use or consumption of marijuana in public is
prohibited. This section is not intended to restrict the owner of any property from further
restricting use of marijuana. (Soldotna Code page 28)
"In public" means in or upon any city -owned property, as well as any place that
members of the public are able to congregate regardless of whether the property is privately or
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publicly owned. Examples include, but are not limited to, restaurants, bars, clubs, hallways,
lobbies and common areas of hotels and multi -unit buildings, shorelines, waterways and
tidelands, and specifically includes the premises of any marijuana business. (Soldotna Code
page 27) (This definition would seem to prohibit marijuana use in Institutional zoning district
(SCC page 7 "public and quasi -public uses")
"Public place" means any area to which the public is invited or into which the public is
permitted, including, but not limited to, educational facilities, entertainment, food and beverage
services, offices, retail stores, common areas in multi -unit buildings such as lobbies, stairwells
and hallways, transportation facilities and vehicles accessible to the general public, parks, public
rights -of -way, shorelines, waterways, tidelands, as well as all city -owned property. (Valdez page
39)
4. Add "SCC Land Uses Allowed Table" for clarity. Add additional restricted locations.
15.10.226 Land Uses Allowed
H. Marijuana establishments as defined in SCC §15.10.140 B55 are allowed in accordance with
tablc 15.10.225 SCC Land Uses Allowed Table 15.10.226 of this chapter subject to the following:
1. The facility owner or operator has submitted a license application to the State of
Alaska for the corresponding type of marijuana establishment prior to operation, and maintains
a current license from the state at all times the facility is in operation.
2. Marijuana establishments shall not to be located within 500 feet of the entrance of
any building where religious ceremonies are regularly held, a correctional facility, recreational
facility or youth center licensed by the state or local government, park, playground, athletic
field, community center, childcare facility, housing facility owned by a public housing authority,
homeless and transient shelter, habilitative care facility, residential districts RM, R1, R2, R3, UR,
OR, or within 1000' of any school. The distance specified in this subsection must be measured
by the shortest pedestrian route from the public entrance of the building in which the
licensed premises would be located to the outer parcel boundaries of the school, recreation or
youth facility or to the main public entrance of the building in which religious services are
regularly held, or the correctional facility. The burden of proof demonstrating that the facility
meets the required separation distances is the responsibility of the marijuana establishment
owner or operator.
Anchorage code page 17: This is a mix of regulations and land uses allowed.
3. Prohibited with alcohol license. A marijuana establishment shall not be allowed in the same
establishment as a use that holds a state alcohol license.
4. Prohibited with residential. A marijuana establishment shall not be allowed on a lot that
contains a residential use other than a caretaker's residence. The caretaker's residence shall be
inhabited by a person or persons associated with the marijuana establishment: a licensee, an
affiliate, or an employee of the establishment.
5. Inspection of premises. All premises of all marijuana establishments shall be open at all times
during business hours for the inspection and examination by the municipality.
6. Ventilation. The premises shall be ventilated so that the odor of marijuana cannot be
detected by a person with a normal sense of smell at any lot line of the subject property.
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7. Public display of land use approval conditions. Each establishment shall display in a location
near the main entrance, and visible to the public in those establishments where the public are
permitted.
8. Permanent structure. A marijuana establishment shall be in a permanent structure with a
valid certificate of zoning compliance. No marijuana establishment shall be authorized in a
vehicle or trailer, a mobile food unit, a standalone intermodal shipping container (connex unit),
or a temporary structure.
9. Signs. Signs shall comply with state regulations and Chapter XXXX. No temporary signs are
permitted.
3.A11 marijuana establishments shall meet all other criteria in this Code and in Alaska
Statutes and Administrative Codes.
5. 15.10.226 Land Uses Allowed Table: separate entries for standard and limited cultivation
facilities. Suggest leaving zones blank for discussion.
Zoning Districts
Uses
Marijuana establishment, limited cultivation facility
Marijuana establishment, standard cultivation facility
Marijuana establishment product manufacturing facility, hazardous materials
Marijuana establishment, product manufacturing facility, non -hazardous materials
Marijuana personal use
Marijuana establishment, retail store
Marijuana establishment, retail store with on -site consumption endorsement, indoor
Marijuana establishment, retail store with on -site consumption endorsement, outdoor
Marijuana establishment, retail store with accessory walk-up/drive-through
Marijuana establishment, testing facility
B. Discussion topics:
1. Will Seward prohibit or allow walk-up or drive -through exterior window pick-up as an
accessory use for retail marijuana stores?
2. Will Seward prohibit or allow outdoor consumption at a retail marijuana retail?
3. A local government may, through the enactment of an ordinance by city council or by an
election vote prohibit the sale or importation of marijuana and any marijuana product, the
operation of marijuana cultivation facilities, marijuana product manufacturing facilities,
marijuana testing facilities, or retail marijuana stores, on -site consumption endorsement for a
marijuana retail store license, consumption by smoking or vaping, or outdoor consumption.
Will Seward prohibit or allow any of the above? 3 AAC 306.200 Local Option (page 31 of
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4. Will Seward amend how the separation distance is measured? Door to door, or lot line to lot
line?
https://www. muni. orq/Departments/OCPD/Marijuana/Documents/AO%202016-
144(S)%20Marijuana%20Separation%20Distances. pdf
5. Should transient merchants on -site of a marijuana establishment be limited to sales of
products for adults 21 and older? Should transient merchants be allowed/prohibited on -site of a
marijuana establishment?
6. Parking:
determine adequate parking for each type of marijuana business
7. Public Notice
Should public notice be expanded to include flyers to grocery stores, Resurrect Art,
Seward Announcements, Chamber Events, Free TV, Seward Public Radio KIBH-FM 91.7 FM, KBBI
88.1 FM.
Regulations:
1. A local government may enact ordinances or regulations not in conflict with AS § 17.38.210
or with regulations enacted pursuant to AS § 17.38.210, governing the time, place, manner, and
number of marijuana establishment operations. Will Seward require restrictions?
Page 10: SCC § 8.25.030 Marijuana Establishments Hours of operation: closed 2 am to 10
pm. Other towns closed midnight to 8 am. This is a Title 8 regulation.
Page 14: Fairbanks limits total number of retail marijuana stores that can operate. This is
a Title 8 regulation.
2. Will Seward prohibit or allow marijuana dispensaries to pass out free samples of products?
This is a Title 8 regulation.
3. If allowed, will Seward regulate the size of the samples? This is a Title 8 regulation.
https://www. alaskasnewssource. com/2023/10/06/new-regulations-starting-oct-8-would-allo w-
dispensaries-give-free-samples/
4. Will Seward amend its drug testing policy to allow legal marijuana use for employees who are
not under federal or state regulations such as police officers, workers in public transportation,
or with commercial driver's licenses who are regulated by the US Department of
Transportation? This is a Title 8 regulation.
5. Will drug testing for marijuana be amended to only allow saliva testing? This is a Title 8
regulation.
6. Is being under the influence while at work a terminable offense? This is a Title 8 regulation.
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hitps://www. adn. com/alaska-news/anchorage/2023/10/08/anchorage-assembly-to-consider-
changes-to-drug-testing-policy-allowing-legal-marijuana-use for -many -city -workers/
7. Anchorage levies a 5% sales tax on the retail sales of marijuana and marijuana products.
Should Seward? This is not Title 15 regulation.
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