Cannabis BUSINESS Operating Permits

The City of El Cerrito opened the window for application's for Cannabis Operating Permits on August 13, 2020 and applications were due by September 3, 2020. The City of El Cerrito received three applications for two Operating Permits for cannabis storefront businesses. A City review team consisting of staff from the Police Department, Community Development Department, City Manager's office, and City Attorney's office reviewed the applications.

The review team selected El Cerrito Wellness Center Partners, Inc. for issuance of a Cannabis Operating Permit at 11886,11896 and 11896 San Pablo Avenue. On September 19, 2018, the City Manager approved the Operating Permit and Conditions of Approval.

The review team also selected Authentic El Cerrito, LLC for issuance of a Cannabis Operating Permit at 10764-10770 San Pablo Avenue. On March 19, 2021, the City Manager approved the Operating Permit and Conditions of Approval.

Both Cannabis Operating Permits require contributions to the City in the form of community benefits fees in addition to annual gross receipt payments.

COMMERCIAL CANNABIS PUBLIC PROCESS AND REGULATIONS

Between 2016 – 2021, the City conducted a series of public outreach meetings regarding commercial cannabis in El Cerrito. Click here to view this information. The El Cerrito City Council adopted the Commercial Cannabis Ordinance on December 19, 2017.