Information regarding medical marijuana

Answers to frequently asked questions.

One of Washoe County’s adopted strategic goals for Fiscal Year 2015-16 is to work together to provide a safe, secure and healthy environment for all of Washoe County’s residents. To help answer some of the questions, frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers are provided below about medicinal cannabis establishments and the purpose of these facilities in unincorporated Washoe County.

Is medical marijuana legal? The Board of County Commissioners did not pass law enabling the use of medical marijuana in Nevada. The Nevada Constitution was amended based on a vote of the people in 1998 and 2000. Nevada state law was changed in 2001 to allow qualified patients to use medical marijuana. The state program was created following the strict regulatory model used by the state of Arizona.

What are medical marijuana establishments (MME’s)? Nevada State Law and Washoe County Code provide for four types of establishments to supply medical marijuana to patients including:

• Dispensary: Delivers or sells marijuana, supplies and education materials to patients or caregivers with a valid Nevada Medical Marijuana Registry Identification Card.
• Production Facility: Supplier of marijuana infused or edible products for dispensaries.
• Cultivation Facility: Supplier of cannabis and related supplies to medical marijuana dispensaries and/or production facilities.
• Testing Laboratory:  Tests marijuana, edible marijuana products and infused products.

What is Washoe County’s role in regulating medical marijuana establishments? Washoe County regulates medical marijuana establishments the same way as other businesses in unincorporated Washoe County. Prior to Washoe County approval, applicants complete an extensive review process through the State of Nevada Health Division. Establishments are required to comply with all local ordinances and will include inspections by multiple agencies including: Sheriff’s Office, Health District, Code Enforcement, Building & Safety and the appropriate fire agency.

Where are dispensaries permitted? Per state law, unincorporated Washoe County dispensaries are permitted in general commercial, neighborhood commercial, tourist commercial, or industrial, in unincorporated Washoe County (See map). Parcels must also be 1,000 feet from a public or private school, and 300 feet from a community facility (e.g., parks, licensed day care facilities, churches, etc.).

Is Washoe County able to require a proposed medical marijuana dispensary be moved? Washoe County cannot require applicants to move a proposed medical marijuana establishment. 

 View additional frequently asked questions, pictures and maps on our medical marijuana webpage.