The City of San Luis Obispo is accepting applications for all Commercial Cannabis Operator Permit types from July 1 through July 31, 2025.
Anyone interested in operating a cannabis business in San Luis Obispo can begin applying for a business license and permit at www.slocity.org/cannabis.
Here are a few key notes about this application period:
- Applications are due by July 31, 2025: The application period for Commercial Cannabis Operator Permits in San Luis Obispo is open from July 1, 2025, to July 31, 2025. Mark your calendars and submit your application during this period.
- Some permit types are limited: The City is accepting applications for both competitive and non-competitive permits. Competitive permits include retail storefront permits and cultivation permits. There are a maximum of three retail storefront permits allowed in San Luis Obispo and two have already been issued. This application period would be for the third and final retail permit. Additionally, the cultivation permits are limited to a cumulative of 70,000 square feet of canopy, which makes that permit type competitive as well. There are no limits on the number of non-competitive permits the City may issue, which includes commercial cannabis delivery, manufacturing, testing labs, and distribution. Applications for non-competitive permits that score an average of 70% or higher based on all available points will qualify for a Contingent Operator Permit. Applications for competitive permits will also be ranked, and the highest-ranking application(s) will qualify for a Contingent Operator Permit.
- There is a fair and transparent application process: To apply for a Commercial Cannabis Operator Permit, follow the step-by-step guidelines provided in the Cannabis Operator Permit Application Procedures. Get familiar with the process, review all the application review process details, and complete and submit all the required information and supporting documents.
- There is a non-refundable fee to apply: A non-refundable fee is required at the time of application submittal. Applicants are encouraged to review the City’s Comprehensive Fee Schedule (see page 2 for cannabis-related fees) to understand the costs associated with applying. While application fees are generally non-refundable, they will be returned if an application is rejected during the initial review solely because the proposed location is outside of the Cannabis Business Overlay Zones.
- Applicants must pass a background check and meet requirements: All owners, principals, and property owners of record listed on the application must pass background checks before a Final Operator Permit will be issued. The City has additional disqualifiers beyond those of the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) in its background check process. If granted an operator permit, the permit-holder can then begin working with the City’s Community Development Department on the necessary use permits. This information and more can be found at www.slocity.org/cannabis.
Interested individuals and businesses are encouraged to review all application materials and applicant resources at: slocity.org/cannabis.