Cannabis regulations in Olmsted County

As of August 1, 2023, Minnesota allows adults 21 and over to possess and use cannabis. However, local units of government may impose additional restrictions, such as prohibiting use in public places. Cannabis businesses are regulated by the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management, and must comply with both state and local requirements. 

While cannabis is legal at the state level, it remains a Schedule I drug under federal law. This means: 

  • Cannabis use, possession, and transportation across state lines are illegal under federal law. 
  • Cannabis businesses cannot use conventional banking methods to buy or sell cannabis. They must rely on cash payments. 

County cannabis regulations 

Olmsted County has been defining its role in local oversight of cannabis through the following measures. 

  • November 19, 2024: Olmsted County amended its cannabis ordinance to clarify the cannabis business registration process, establish a process for compliance checks, and create requirements for cannabis temporary events.  
  • September 17, 2024: Olmsted County amended its zoning ordinance which applies in the unincorporated areas of the county to define where cannabis businesses can be located in those areas.  
  • August 6, 2024: The county cannabis ordinance was amended to authorize 14 cannabis businesses licensed by OCM to register and serve customers in Olmsted County. This limit is in line with state law that allows a jurisdiction to limit cannabis registrations to 1 per 12,500 population. The county also prohibited use of cannabis products at Graham Park and in the county parks.  
  • November 7, 2023: Olmsted County passed an ordinance banning cannabis use in public places, except for events or establishments licensed by the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). 

Cannabis business registration and event permits 

If you are interested in selling or hosting temporary cannabis events in the county, you will need to follow applicable state and local regulations. The link below offers more information about state licensing. Information on local registration and event permits will be added to this page before licensed cannabis sales begin on March 1, 2025. 

Office of Cannabis Management License Types 

FAQs on the county’s cannabis ordinance 

On November 7, 2023, the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance prohibiting cannabis use in public, effective immediately. This frequently asked questions (FAQ) list strives to provide clarity and guidance and address common queries about this ordinance.  
 
What does the ordinance say about using cannabis in public places? 
The ordinance passed by Olmsted County says that people cannot use cannabis in public places in Olmsted County unless an establishment or event has a license issued by OCM to permit on-site consumption. It also says people cannot smoke or use cannabis products in any place where minors might breathe in the smoke or vapor. 


Under this ordinance, what is a "public place" or a “place of public accommodation?” 
A "public place" means any place the general public can go, like, hospitals parks, stores, public transit, and schools in Olmsted County. 

A "place of public accommodation" is a business or building in Olmsted County that offers services to everyone. These include restaurants, hotels, and transportation facilities like airports. 


Does this ordinance apply to people who use cannabis for medical reasons? 
Yes, everyone, including those who use cannabis for medical purposes, must follow the new ordinance. While the ordinance permits cannabis for medical reasons in certain situations, it is against the law to use it in public places in Olmsted County. 


What are the new rules for cannabis businesses in Olmsted County? 
Registration: Any state-licensed cannabis business operating in Olmsted County must also register and be approved with the County before opening. Failure to register can result in a fine of up to $2,000 per violation. Other penalties include fines or suspensions of registration for up to 30 days if businesses fail compliance checks. 

Permits for cannabis events: Cannabis-related events need a special permit from Olmsted County and can last up to four days, as long as they follow specific rules which are spelled out in the Ordinance, like checking IDs and providing food and non-alcoholic drinks. 

Compliance checks: Cannabis businesses will undergo at least one unannounced compliance check each year to ensure they aren’t selling to persons under the age of 21 and are following other state and local requirements. 


How will this ordinance be enforced and what are the penalties for violating it? 
The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office and Olmsted County Public Health staff are primarily responsible for enforcing the ordinance. 

For cannabis public use violations, individuals may face a petty misdemeanor charge with penalties including a fine of up to $300 and/or community service. 


Can private property owners allow cannabis use on their land? 
Private property owners can choose whether to allow cannabis use on their land if it follows other laws and rules. 


Where can I find the full text of this ordinance? 
You can find the full text of the ordinance on the Olmsted County website. 

Questions? 

If you have questions about cannabis regulations or business permits in Olmsted County, please contact CannabisInquiries@olmstedcounty.gov.