Changes to Cannabis Policy in West Vancouver: What You Need to Know

The District of West Vancouver is making notable adjustments to its cannabis regulations, potentially allowing for the opening of a new store and significantly reducing operational costs for existing retailers. As the landscape of legal cannabis continues to evolve, it’s essential for residents and potential business owners to stay informed about these developments.

Background on Cannabis Legalization in West Vancouver

Recreational cannabis was legalized across Canada in 2018, a groundbreaking move that sparked many municipalities to reevaluate their policies on cannabis retail. However, West Vancouver took its time before diving into this new market. In 2021, the district introduced a regulatory framework allowing only four cannabis stores to operate locally, restricting locations to:

• Ambleside
• Dundarave
• Horseshoe Bay
• Taylor Way

License Permits Awarded to Cannabis Retailers

In December 2021, the West Vancouver council reviewed proposals from ten prospective cannabis retailers. After careful consideration, they granted temporary use permits to only two stores:

• Avenue Cannabis on Bellevue Avenue in Ambleside
• Happy Isle Cannabis on Royal Avenue in Horseshoe Bay

Unfortunately, no retailers emerged from the Dundarave area or the business community surrounding Taylor Way.

New Developments in Cannabis Policy

Recently, West Vancouver’s council voted to amend its cannabis policy, which now opens the door for a potential fifth store to be established in the upcoming Cypress Village. While this area is still under development and is several years away from completion, the possibility of more cannabis retail options is looking promising.

Reduction in Cannabis License Fees

Alongside the proposed new location, the council has also decided to dramatically reduce the annual licensing fee for cannabis shops from an onerous $5,100 to a more manageable $300. Initially, this high fee aimed to cover the costs associated with developing cannabis regulations and potential enforcement. However, as noted by Michelle McGuire, senior manager of planning for the district, there haven’t been any unusual costs associated with managing these shops.

Unanimous Support for Policy Changes

The decision to update the cannabis policy was unanimously supported by the council, with minimal discussions about the new developments in Cypress Village. Council member Sharon Thompson expressed interest in engaging with store owners to assess market viability while ensuring that the market does not become oversaturated.

Public Hearings and Future Steps

As part of the changes, the two existing stores, which have operated under temporary use permits, are set to be formally rezoned for cannabis sales. These crucial rezonings will undergo public hearings scheduled for October 21, 2023, providing the community an opportunity to express their views on cannabis retail in the area.

Conclusion

The recent adjustments to West Vancouver’s cannabis policies signal an evolving attitude towards legal cannabis in the community. With the potential for a new store in Cypress Village and significant reductions in operating costs for current retailers, local business owners and residents alike will be keen to observe how these changes unfold in the near future.