Town Prohibits Cannabis Venues, Public Use

NORTH BEACH, Md. — The Town of North Beach passed Emergency Ordinance 25-02 on June 6, 2025, imposing comprehensive prohibitions on cannabis use and related activities within its corporate limits. The ordinance bans on-site cannabis consumption establishments, cannabis-related public events, and public consumption of cannabis products, citing public health, safety, and community character concerns. The measure aligns with authority granted by Senate Bill 215, signed into law by Governor Wes Moore on April 22, 2025.

Senate Bill 215, passed during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly session, allows local jurisdictions to regulate cannabis-related activities, including on-site consumption establishments for cannabis edibles and public events involving cannabis use or sales. North Beach’s ordinance responds to these provisions by prohibiting such activities to preserve the town’s family-friendly environment and coastal tourism appeal. It also aims to prevent public health and law enforcement conflicts, avoid zoning and permitting challenges, and ensure consistency with existing land use and business licensing policies.

The ordinance amends Chapter 86, Peace and Good Order, of the Town Code, invoking authority under Md. Code Ann., Local Gov’t Article §§ 5-202 and 5-209(c). It includes three primary provisions. First, it prohibits any business, licensed cannabis entity, or organization from establishing venues offering cannabis edibles for on-site consumption, including facilities serving both standard and cannabis-infused products. Second, it bans public events where cannabis products, including infused beverages, are distributed, sold, or consumed, even if facilitated by licensed vendors. Third, it prohibits smoking, vaping, or ingesting cannabis edibles in public spaces, including town parks, recreation areas, sidewalks, streets, the boardwalk, piers, town-owned buildings, public rights-of-way, and areas within businesses accessible to the public.

Town officials emphasized that the ordinance addresses logistical challenges related to zoning, permitting, and public safety monitoring. By prohibiting cannabis-related activities, North Beach seeks to maintain its appeal as a coastal destination while avoiding regulatory complexities. The ordinance reflects concerns raised by residents and officials about the potential impact of cannabis use on the town’s community character and tourism-driven economy.

The passage of Senate Bill 215 marked a significant shift in Maryland’s cannabis policy, granting local governments flexibility to tailor regulations to their needs. North Beach’s swift adoption of Emergency Ordinance 25-02 demonstrates its intent to maintain strict control over cannabis-related activities. The ordinance took effect immediately upon passage, ensuring no delay in enforcing the prohibitions.

North Beach, located in Calvert County, is known for its scenic waterfront, boardwalk, and family-oriented events. The town’s economy relies heavily on tourism, with visitors drawn to its beaches, fishing piers, and community festivals. The ordinance underscores the town’s commitment to preserving this identity amid evolving state cannabis laws. As other Maryland jurisdictions consider their own regulations under Senate Bill 215, North Beach’s approach may serve as a model for communities prioritizing restrictive measures.

The ordinance does not affect private cannabis use in residences, as it focuses solely on public spaces and commercial activities. Residents and visitors are expected to comply with the new rules, with enforcement handled by local authorities. The town has not announced specific penalties for violations, but officials indicated that existing peace and good order regulations would guide enforcement.