Mass. approves rules for social consumption of marijuana, clearing the way for cannabis ca
December 11, 2025
Mass. OKs rules for social marijuana consumption, clearing way for cannabis cafes
The Cannabis Control Commission plans to send the approved regulations to the Secretary of State by Dec. 19, and the rules would become official on Jan. 2, 2026.
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After almost a decade of waiting, cannabis cafes in Massachusetts could soon become a reality.
The Cannabis Control Commission approved its final rules for social consumption Thursday, meaning people will be allowed to consume marijuana in licensed places, in the same way alcohol is consumed at a bar.
WATCH HEREThis vote comes after months of deliberations and delays, and supporters are calling it a monumental day for the cannabis industry in the Bay State.
The unanimous vote paves the way for business opportunities such as cannabis cafes, yoga classes and festivals.
The commission’s framework rolls out three new license types:
- Supplemental, for existing cannabis businesses to add on site consumption into their operations.
- Hospitality, for non-cannabis businesses to host consumption activities with qualifying marijuana establishments.
- Event organizer, for cannabis businesses to host consumption events.
Once the regulations are formally approved, towns and cities will still need to opt in. Many have already expressed interest, including Cambridge, Chelsea, Fitchburg, Haverhill, Holyoke, Provincetown, Somerville and Worcester.
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The commission plans to send the approved regulations to the Secretary of State by Dec. 19, and the rules would become official on Jan. 2, 2026.
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