Ohio’s Recreational Weed Sales: What’s Forbidden

Ohio Issues Strict Guidelines for Recreational Cannabis Dispensary Openings

As Ohio prepares for the start of recreational marijuana sales, many residents may be eager to celebrate this milestone. However, the atmosphere at dispensaries will be far from festive. The state has released stringent guidelines that significantly restrict how dispensaries can commemorate the beginning of recreational cannabis sales.

Division of Cannabis Control Guidelines

Last week, the Division of Cannabis Control issued detailed guidance for dual-use dispensaries regarding “opening day” activities. The guidelines include several prohibitions to ensure a controlled and professional environment. The restrictions apply not only to the dispensary premises but also to parking lots and any other property the dispensary controls.

Prohibited activities include cannabis consumption, offering samples (infused or uninfused), playing music outside the dispensary, and having food trucks or other food offered for sale or complimentary. Additionally, product displays outside the dispensary, celebratory decor or unapproved signage outside the dispensary, and ribbon cuttings outside the dispensary are also not allowed.

Despite the numerous restrictions, the guidelines do allow for some celebratory activities within the dispensary’s indoor premises. These permissions are designed to create a welcoming yet controlled environment for customers. Dispensaries are allowed to have music inside (not live), offer complimentary non-alcoholic beverages for guests, display products by cultivators or processors (empty packaging/no cannabis) inside the dispensary as long as they are not visible from the exterior of the building, and have approved signage and celebratory decor inside the dispensary. Ribbon cuttings are permitted inside the dispensary as well.

Consumer Confidentiality and Advertising Regulations

Dispensaries must ensure the confidentiality of adult-use consumers on their premises. To protect customer privacy, no videos or photos can be taken inside the dispensaries without the explicit consent of those present. This measure is crucial for maintaining the trust and comfort of customers as they visit dispensaries for the first time under the new regulations.

All advertising materials must be submitted to the Division of Cannabis Control for approval before they can be used. This regulation aims to ensure that all promotional content adheres to state guidelines and does not mislead or exploit consumers. Dispensaries found violating these rules could face significant penalties, including fines up to $50,000 per violation, among other possible punishments.

Ohio’s strict guidelines for the opening of recreational marijuana dispensaries reflect the state’s cautious approach to this new industry. By implementing these regulations, the Division of Cannabis Control aims to create a safe, controlled, and respectful environment for the introduction of recreational cannabis sales. As dispensaries prepare to open their doors, both operators and consumers will need to navigate these rules carefully to ensure a smooth and compliant start to Ohio’s recreational marijuana market.