Cannabis and Rural Land Use Conflicts in Southern Ontario

Abstract

With the recent introduction of the Cannabis Act, S.C. 2018, c. 16, cannabis production for recreational and medicinal purposes has significantly increased which has resulted in impacts on rural communities. This research explores the impacts that legalized cannabis production has had on communities but understanding how municipalities in rural Ontario have utilized policy tools to respond to increasing cannabis production pressures, and what are the challenges and benefits of cannabis production for rural municipalities. Local zoning bylaws were reviewed in addition to interviews with key informants to answer the research questions. The research found that there were both benefits and challenges as a result of cannabis production for rural communities which resulted in a wide range of regulatory practices in Southern Ontario. The research also found that there were specific challenges for policy makers. A standardized methodology and guideline for siting cannabis production facilities, similar to what has been done in Ontario for livestock facilities, would assist rural municipalities and policy makers in achieving greater compatibility.