The Delaware Marijuana industry is at a turning point after Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin announced that license holders may now apply to transfer their permits between the state’s three counties. This change opens the door for many Delaware Marijuana entrepreneurs to relocate from highly restricted areas, such as parts of Sussex County, to places like Kent and New Castle counties where opportunities may be greater.
Previously, under former commissioner Rob Coupe, each marijuana license was tied to a single county. This rule was designed to ensure fair access but has inadvertently restricted growth. By easing that rule, Sanderlin hopes to give Delaware Marijuana businesses the flexibility to find sites that are financially viable and compliant with local zoning. He noted that as a former cannabis executive himself, he understands the challenges faced by small operators in the Delaware Marijuana market.
This move comes amid a heated policy debate. Last month Governor Matt Meyer vetoed Senate Bill 75, which would have curtailed local zoning authority over cannabis shops. The veto left many Delaware Marijuana licensees frustrated because strict buffers and conditional use requirements still limit where stores can open, especially in Sussex County, which currently enforces a three-mile buffer around sensitive locations such as schools and treatment centers. New Castle’s buffer is 1,000 feet and Kent has none, though retail businesses must be in commercial zones.
Some operators, including social equity licensees, believe that moving to a new county will expand their options and lower costs. For example, one marijuana manufacturer has already received approval to relocate from New Castle County to Sussex County after finding a suitable property. This flexibility could help stabilize the Delaware Marijuana market and encourage a more even distribution of businesses.
Still, questions remain. County leaders defend their zoning authority and buffers, comparing them to rules for liquor stores. At the same time, Governor Meyer has floated a compromise that would direct a share of cannabis tax revenue to the counties hosting Delaware Marijuana businesses, offsetting enforcement and infrastructure costs. Sussex County is considering removing its conditional use requirement if such a revenue-sharing deal is approved.
For entrepreneurs, the new transfer policy represents a rare bit of good news. With proper planning and clear communication with regulators, Delaware Marijuana license holders may finally be able to overcome some of the biggest barriers to opening their doors and serving customers across the state.
