Cannabis retailers can now apply for business licences to operate in the city of Surrey.
Council passed a motion on Monday, approving a Policy Framework and Application Process. The policy allows for up to two stores per community in Surrey, for a total of 12 in the city.
The locations of these stores will be restricted.
“The City will have a 60 day application window to receive applications in one or more community areas at a time. A Request for Expressions of Interest (‘RFEOI’) will be used to solicit applications which staff will review and evaluate based on established criteria,” the motion reads.
“Complete applications will be pre-screened to ensure that they meet basic requirements around the OCP designation, current zoning, and separation requirements, as well as having valid ownership or a lease agreement for the proposed location with a letter of permission from the owner/strata. Applicants will also be required to show proof of an application for a license from the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (‘LCRB’).”
Locations for businesses must be at least 200 metres away from schools, community and rec centres, as well as existing cannabis retail or production locations in Surrey.
The vote comes after the city called for public feedback in January on its proposed Retail Cannabis Framework.