The City of Fullerton will consider an amendment to its Municipal Code to enhance enforcement of unlicensed commercial cannabis activities at the City Council meeting on April 7, 2026. The proposed changes include allowing immediate fines for specific actions related to unlicensed cannabis operations and introducing alternative enforcement options.

The amendment addresses ongoing challenges in enforcing existing cannabis regulations, which require lengthy investigative and administrative procedures before abatement actions can proceed. These delays often allow illegal operations to reemerge, necessitating further enforcement efforts.

Under the proposed ordinance, new authority under state legislation, specifically AB 1684, would permit local authorities to impose immediate administrative fines for various unlicensed cannabis activities, including retail, distribution, and manufacturing. The current municipal code requires a notice and opportunity for violators to rectify issues, which has been cited as diminishing the deterrent effect of penalties.

Additionally, the ordinance proposes establishing a new chapter in the Municipal Code that explicitly prohibits unlicensed commercial cannabis activities. This measure is intended to reinforce existing zoning prohibitions without altering zoning regulations. The proposal would also extend liability to property owners and other responsible parties, in line with state law.

The ordinance seeks to improve the City’s enforcement capability by providing mechanisms to address persistent or repeated violations, thereby equipping the City to tackle unlicensed cannabis operations more effectively.

City Council members have expressed divided views on cannabis regulation. Fred Jung from Council District 1 stated he would not advocate for cannabis. At the same time, Nick Dunlap from Council District 2 expressed opposition to retail dispensaries, stating they are not beneficial to the community. In contrast, Matthew Truxaw, during the 2024 City Council campaigns, said, “Santa Ana, in the first 4 years, got $50 million in tax revenue from cannabis. Also, we have liquor stores all over. We have bars all over. Cannabis to me is less problematic… I would support it in a controlled way.”

The upcoming City Council meeting will allow for public discussion and feedback regarding the proposed changes as Fullerton seeks to navigate local enforcement of cannabis regulations within the framework set by state law.