§ 120.00. Short title, authority and purpose.

(a)

Short title. This chapter shall be known as "Medical Marijuana Dispensing Facilities Code."

(b)

Authority. This chapter is enacted under the home rule power of the City of Port St. Lucie in the interest of the health, safety, peace and general welfare of the people of the City, and under the authority of the city to regulate the criteria for the number, location, and other permitting requirements of for all dispensing facilities of dispensing organizations that do not conflict with state law or department rule located within its municipal boundaries.

(c)

Purpose and findings of fact.

(1)

On November 4, 2016, the voters of the State of Florida amended the Florida Constitution related to the decriminalization of marijuana for medicinal use.

(2)

Florida Statute Section 381.986(11) (b) (2), permits municipalities to "determine by ordinance the criteria for the location of, and other permitting requirements that do not conflict with state law or department rule for, medical marijuana treatment center dispensing facilities located within the boundaries of that municipality".

(3)

The City Council has determined that it is in the best interests of the citizenry and general public to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries and related activities consistent with Florida law.

(Ord. No. 17-49, § 2, 8-14-17)