Sacramento, California Approves Pilot Program for Social Cannabis Consumption

The program will allow permitted dispensaries to apply for licenses enabling on-site use of cannabis products, marking a significant step for the city’s cannabis industry.

Dispensaries can apply for two types of permits under the new program. Type 1 permits allow for the consumption of cannabis-infused food and beverages, while Type 2 permits also permit smoking cannabis products such as flower, pre-rolls, and concentrates, provided businesses meet ventilation requirements. Applicants must submit plans addressing operations, impaired driving prevention, and compliance with local and state safety regulations. Patrons must be 21 or older to enter consumption lounges. “This pilot program will allow us to carefully evaluate how social cannabis consumption can operate in Sacramento,” said Finance Director Pete Coletto. “Our goal is to balance supporting local businesses and expanding consumer options with protecting public safety and health.”

The Office of Cannabis Management has spent years exploring the potential for social consumption in Sacramento, engaging with community members, businesses, and other stakeholders through meetings and workshops. The program reflects feedback collected during those efforts.

Social cannabis consumption is becoming increasingly common across California, with jurisdictions such as San Francisco, Oakland, and West Hollywood offering similar opportunities. Governor Gavin Newsom’s signing of Assembly Bill 1775 earlier this year paved the way for cities and counties to expand offerings at cannabis retailers and consumption lounges.

In Sacramento, add-on permits for consumption lounges are expected to become available in summer 2025 after the City Council reviews cannabis land-use and zoning amendments and administrative steps such as fee studies are completed. For more information, residents can visit the city’s cannabis webpage or contact the Office of Cannabis Management.