Marijuana moratorium extended as council continues regulatory review
Published on September 02, 2026
Powell City Council is taking additional time to evaluate how marijuana-related businesses should be regulated in Powell. At its Sept. 1 meeting, Council extended the City’s temporary marijuana moratorium through Dec. 31, 2027, allowing time for further research, public input and consideration of potential regulatory approaches before making a long-term decision.
The discussion comes as the City completes a comprehensive update to its Planning and Zoning Code, an effort that has been underway for more than a decade. In 2025, City Council directed a comprehensive rewrite and replacement of the outdated legislation. Over the following 18 months, administrative staff worked with consultants, boards and committees to complete the assignment, with multiple opportunities for public input throughout the process.
On July 15, 2026, the Powell Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the updated Code to City Council. At the time, a temporary moratorium prohibiting marijuana dispensaries in the City was in place. The version of the Code recommended by the Commission would have made that prohibition permanent by codifying it in the Zoning Code.
At its Aug. 4 meeting, City Council held a lengthy discussion regarding cannabis during the second reading of the proposed Zoning Code rewrite. Following that discussion, Council amended the Code to remove all provisions prohibiting cannabis dispensaries, uses and operations. The temporary moratorium in effect at that time was set to expire Sept. 4, 2026.
On Sept. 1, the Council Development Committee received a presentation on cannabis regulation and potential approaches for establishing regulations within Powell. The Committee reviewed examples from other communities, and staff presented mapping illustrating current state regulations applicable within the City. Staff will continue to refine and provide additional information to assist Council in its consideration.
Following the Committee meeting, City Council held its regular meeting and approved an extension of the temporary moratorium through Dec. 31, 2027. The extension provides Council with additional time to fully evaluate the issue, consider potential regulatory approaches and gather further public input before making a long-term decision.
Council recognizes the importance of taking a thoughtful and deliberate approach to this issue. The additional time allows Council to ensure it has a clear understanding of the regulatory options, potential impacts to the community and legal and planning considerations before determining what is appropriate for Powell. Staff is preparing proposed amendments to the Zoning Code to support this ongoing discussion.
The extension of the moratorium is not a final decision on whether cannabis dispensaries or other cannabis uses will be permitted in Powell. Rather, it allows City Council to complete the necessary due diligence and public process so it can make an informed decision that best reflects the interests and long-term needs of the Powell community.
September 1, 2026 City Council Meeting Agenda