Posted on 08/13/2025
The LA City Council approved a report from the Government Operations and Public Safety Committees aimed at strengthening enforcement against unauthorized cannabis shops. Initiated by Councilmembers John Lee, District 12, and Heather Hutt, District 10, the action directs the City Attorney to advise on strategies to prevent illegal cannabis businesses from reopening and to evaluate how the Neighborhood Prosecutor Program can support future enforcement. The report also calls for exploring amendments to the Los Angeles Municipal Code to expand enforcement authority to Street Services Investigators.
As of early 2024, cannabis businesses in Los Angeles are required to obtain both City permits and a Department of Cannabis Regulation license to operate legally. Despite these requirements, enforcement has lagged, with unlicensed shops frequently reopening after closure and relocating within the City to avoid detection. Because enforcement is largely complaint-driven and resources at the Los Angeles Police Department and the Department of Cannabis Regulation are limited, the City has struggled to proactively regulate illegal cannabis activity. Supporters, including Neighborhood Councils, have stressed the need for stronger tools to address this ongoing challenge.