San Diego, January 16, 2026
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has voted to update cannabis policies in unincorporated areas, focusing on land use, consumption lounges, and community benefits. This decision represents a shift towards greater economic opportunity in the cannabis sector, reducing regulatory barriers for local businesses. While the majority supports the updates, concerns remain regarding land use and public safety. The board is expected to make a final decision on the full program later this summer, with community engagement playing a crucial role in shaping these policies.
San Diego County Supervisors Approve Cannabis Policy Updates
San Diego, CA — The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 on January 14, 2026, to advance updates to the proposed cannabis program in unincorporated areas. The revisions focus on land use, consumption lounges, and community benefits, marking a notable shift in policy that local entrepreneurs and businesses view as an opportunity for growth and innovation.
This decision highlights the county’s willingness to adapt to evolving state regulations and the growing market for cannabis-related businesses, positioning itself as a forward-thinking community. By reducing regulatory barriers and aligning local policies with state standards, San Diego County could enhance economic opportunities for small businesses, which are crucial for job creation and local economic vitality.
Key Updates Approved
- Land Use Regulations: The plan permits all cannabis facility types and establishes a 600-foot buffer between facilities and sensitive areas such as schools, daycare centers, and youth centers, in alignment with state standards.
- Consumption Lounges: The Board has indicated a willingness to conduct further research on the establishment of consumption lounges and cannabis-related events, which could provide venues for safe and regulated use.
- Community Equity Contribution Program: This program enables qualifying cannabis businesses to apply for tax rebates or grants, providing vital support to new enterprises as they navigate the permitting and licensing process.
Board Members’ Positions
The motion was introduced by Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe, backed by Supervisors Paloma Aguirre and Terra Lawson-Remer, reflecting a majority view that combines social justice with economic opportunity. Conversely, Supervisors Joel Anderson and Jim Desmond expressed concerns regarding land use and public safety, emphasizing a more cautious approach to cannabis-related activities in unincorporated areas.
Background and Rationale
Supervisor Montgomery Steppe underscored the county’s responsibility to address the consequences of the War on Drugs while promoting the economic potential of the legal cannabis industry. With the sector anticipated to generate substantial revenue—projected at $46 billion for the current year—and having employed 425,000 individuals in 2024, the benefits of a legalized approach are becoming increasingly apparent. This revenue could ultimately fund services and infrastructure improvements within the community.
Supervisor Aguirre defended the thoughtful development of the policy, highlighting its alignment with state law and its potential to foster education and community reinvestment. Supervisor Lawson-Remer discussed the historical injustices linked to past criminalization efforts, emphasizing the importance of creating a regulated environment that acknowledges these issues.
On the opposing side, Supervisor Desmond raised valid concerns regarding land use and the implications of cannabis sales, use, and cultivation in unincorporated regions. He advocated for stricter regulations, including maintaining a 1,000-foot buffer between marijuana businesses and schools to address community safety worries. Supervisor Anderson shared similar apprehensions, pointing to constituents’ calls for more stringent restrictions.
The Board’s recent actions, including setting tax rates for the legal cannabis industry and creating programs for those previously impacted by criminalization, indicate a proactive approach to integrating cannabis into the county’s economic landscape. With a final vote on the full program expected later this summer, community feedback will continue to play a crucial role in shaping these new policies.
Conclusion
The approval of the updated cannabis policy by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors reflects an evolving landscape toward a more inclusive and economically viable future. For local entrepreneurs, this could mean new prospects in the burgeoning cannabis industry, while simultaneously considering the needs and safety of the surrounding community. As San Diego continues to navigate these changes, supporting local businesses and advocating for common-sense regulations can spur sustainable economic growth. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged in this process and play an active role in shaping the county’s economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What did the San Diego County Board of Supervisors approve on January 14, 2026?
- The Board voted 3-2 to advance updates to the proposed cannabis program in unincorporated areas, focusing on land use, consumption lounges, and community benefits.
- What are the key updates approved in the cannabis program?
- The updates include aligning land use regulations with state standards, further consideration of consumption lounges and events, and establishing a community equity contribution program for qualifying cannabis businesses.
- Who voted in favor and against the motion?
- Supervisors Monica Montgomery Steppe, Paloma Aguirre, and Terra Lawson-Remer voted in favor, while Supervisors Joel Anderson and Jim Desmond opposed the motion.
- When is the final vote on the full cannabis program expected?
- A final vote on the full program is expected this summer.
- What are the projected economic benefits of the legal cannabis industry?
- The legal U.S. cannabis market employed 425,000 workers in 2024 and is projected to generate $46 billion in revenue this year, potentially increasing funding for county services and infrastructure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Approval Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Vote Outcome | 3-2 in favor |
| Key Updates | Land use regulations, consumption lounges, community equity contribution program |
| Supervisors Voting in Favor | Monica Montgomery Steppe, Paloma Aguirre, Terra Lawson-Remer |
| Supervisors Voting Against | Joel Anderson, Jim Desmond |
| Final Vote on Full Program | Expected this summer |
| Projected Economic Benefits | Legal U.S. cannabis market projected to generate $46 billion in revenue this year |
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