Liberty Township, OH — Despite Ohio voters approving the legalization of recreational cannabis in 2023, Liberty Township is taking a firm stance against the growing industry. Township trustees have officially passed a resolution to prohibit all marijuana-related businesses, whether medical or recreational, within township limits.
The decision, confirmed by WLWT this week, comes on the heels of the expiration of a temporary moratorium that had previously been in place. That ban, enacted to give the township time to consider its long-term approach to cannabis, expired on May 4. Now, Liberty Township leaders have moved decisively to cement a permanent restriction.
The resolution bans all cannabis cultivation, processing, and retail sales, effectively shutting the door on any potential dispensaries, grow operations, or medical marijuana centers from operating in the area. Township officials say the move reflects the values and concerns of many local residents who remain wary of how cannabis businesses might impact their community.
This stance places Liberty Township in contrast with other parts of Ohio that are actively preparing to welcome cannabis businesses and the economic benefits they could bring.
While the state's framework permits local governments to opt out, Liberty’s total prohibition sends a clear message: the township wants nothing to do with the cannabis industry, at least for now.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Supporters of the ban argue that cannabis businesses could bring increased traffic, crime, or other unintended consequences. “It’s about protecting our community values,” said one local resident during a recent township meeting. “We just don’t want marijuana businesses popping up on every corner.”
However, critics argue that the township is passing up a significant economic opportunity. With cannabis sales projected to generate hundreds of millions in tax revenue across the state, some residents believe Liberty Township is leaving money on the table. Others worry that banning legal dispensaries could push cannabis consumers toward illicit sources, undermining the goals of legalization in the first place.
As the cannabis industry continues to expand across Ohio, Liberty Township’s hardline approach is likely to spark further debate—especially as neighboring communities begin to reap the financial benefits of legalized cannabis commerce.
For now, though, Liberty Township has made its position crystal clear: no cannabis businesses—medical or recreational—are welcome within its borders.
