Henrico adopts strict zoning, tax rules ahead of Virginia’s recreational marijuana market launch
HENRICO COUNTY, Va. — Ahead of Virginia’s scheduled statewide recreational cannabis rollout, the Henrico County Board of Supervisors has enacted a comprehensive package of ordinances establishing strict zoning boundaries, a local sales tax, and public consumption bans for marijuana businesses.
The Board voted unanimously on Nov. 10 to adopt the three-part regulatory framework, preparing the locality for the state-regulated retail market set to launch July 1, 2027.
Under the new land-use rules, prospective retail storefronts and cultivation warehouses are restricted to designated commercial and light industrial districts. Furthermore, every proposed facility must secure a provisional use permit, giving local officials case-by-case oversight.
The ordinances enforce a mandatory 1,000-foot buffer zone separating cannabis businesses from churches, schools, childcare centers, libraries, playgrounds, and public parks. In addition, indoor cultivation and warehouse operations in industrial zones face strict height caps and enhanced aesthetic screening requirements.
Preparing for state mandates
During the public hearing, Ben Blankinship, Henrico’s zoning division manager, emphasized that the county was acting proactively rather than in response to a specific influx of applications.
State law mandates that local governments establish land-use guidelines for the coming market. Without these local amendments, officials warned, retail cannabis operations could have defaulted into nearly any commercial district countywide.
While the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority will handle state-level licensing, local authorities retain full control over zoning and placement.
The proposal previously cleared the Henrico Planning Commission unanimously on Oct. 15 following a hearing that drew no public testimony.
Debate over buffer zones and public use
The Board’s public hearing brought minor pushback over the extent of the restrictions. Speaker Alex Chernoff questioned the necessity of the broad distance requirements involving religious institutions, parks, and libraries. County Attorney Andrew Newby defended the measures, assuring the board that the provisions fell well within local regulatory authority.
Beyond land use, supervisors approved a 3.5% local sales tax on recreational marijuana products—the maximum rate permitted under state law, which must remain fixed for at least three years.
A separate ordinance clamps down on public consumption, banning the use or sharing of marijuana products in public parks, playgrounds, public streets, and adjacent sidewalks, as well as on school grounds. Beginning July 1, 2027, first-time violations of the public-use policy will carry a $250 fine, with steeper penalties for repeat offenses.
Looking ahead
With the state market launch over a year away, Henrico officials say the new framework provides a clear runway for potential operators. Securing local land-use approval and a provisional use permit will serve as a mandatory prerequisite for any business seeking state licensure to operate within the county.
