Starting a Cannabis Retail Store in the Township of Esquimalt Frequently Asked Questions

Starting a Cannabis Retail Store in the Township of Esquimalt

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for opening a cannabis retail store (CRS) in Esquimalt?

In order to sell non-medical cannabis in Esquimalt the owner of land will have to first obtain a site specific rezoning to allow cannabis retail sales as a permitted use on a specific property. Applicants will also be able to obtain a valid ‘Cannabis Retailer’ business licence from the Township. Cannabis retail licences are excluded from any location within 500 m of an elementary, middle or secondary school within the municipality. Please see attached map of excluded locations.

What is required for the rezoning application?

A complete rezoning application should include the following:

• Application form and payment;
• Certificate of title for the subject property issued within 30 days of the date of application;
• Copies of all legal documents registered on title;
• Signed permission from the owner of the property allowing the applicant to apply for rezoning on behalf of the owner (if necessary);
• Key plan showing the location of the property in relation to neighbouring properties;
• A site plan (see application form for contents of the site plan);
• A landscape plan (see application form for contents of the landscape plan);
• BC Land Surveyors Certificate; and,
• Green Building Checklist

What other items may be necessary?

Depending on the nature of the application, some of the following may also be required:

• Servicing plan as per the requirements of the Engineering Department;
• Any additional information that may be required by staff or council to fully evaluate the potential land use implications of the proposed use;

Are there any requirements specific to a CRS rezoning application?

A detailed report outlining the proposed use of the land (eg. size of retail area, size of storage area, proposed hours of operation, parking study, evidence that the company has applied for a provincial licence, how product is transferred to the retail outlet from the province, and information about any other potential impacts).

A report outlining environmental design approaches that are proposed to reduce opportunities for potential crime associated with the use.

1229 Esquimalt Road Esquimalt BC V9A 3P1 t. 250-414-7103 f. 250-414-7160 www.esquimalt.ca

What day will applications be accepted?

Applications for cannabis sales will be accepted on or after October 17, 2018, when the use of non-medical cannabis is legalized under the federal Cannabis Act.

What is the application fee?

Application fees will be calculated as per the most recent version of the Development Application Procedures and Fees Bylaw No. 2791.

How long will the rezoning process take?

The rezoning process typically takes 6 months or longer, with the submission of a complete application. Some applications may require more time. All rezoning applications have a requirement for public engagement and opportunity for feedback. The applicant must comply with the public consultation procedures and provide the information on public consultation as per the Development Application Procedures and Fees Bylaw.