Portland city leaders are considering a revision to the municipal code that would permit cannabis retailers to operate drive‑thru lanes and walk‑up windows. The proposal, introduced by Mayor Keith Wilson on Tuesday, seeks to update language that has restricted these services for nearly a decade.
Background and proposed changes
Under the current city code, marijuana dispensaries are barred from using drive‑thru or walk‑up windows for sales. State law, however, has allowed on‑site delivery—including window service—since 2020. Advocates argue that the city’s rules have fallen behind both state regulations and industry practice.
“It’s been almost ten years since the language was written, and the industry has evolved,” said Elle Lune, general manager of Green Goddess Remedies Dispensary. “Modernizing the code will bring Portland in line with what other jurisdictions are already doing.”
How the new system would work
The ordinance would allow dispensaries to use existing drive‑thru lanes or walk‑up windows that are part of their buildings. Proponents picture a process similar to fast‑food service: a customer pulls up, presents identification, and receives their purchase without leaving their vehicle.
“Imagine pulling up like you would at a fast‑food restaurant, showing ID, and getting your product without getting wet,” Lune explained. “Everything would be recorded on video for compliance, and ID checks would be enforced at the window.”
Economic and community impact
Supporters say the change could increase accessibility for customers who have difficulty entering a store, such as the elderly or those with mobility challenges. They also argue it would generate additional tax revenue for the city.
“It’s going to be immensely valuable to the community,” Lune said. “Adding that accessibility will boost the economy and could eventually support the creation of social consumption lounges.”
Concerns over licensing fees
The ordinance also revises the payment schedule for cannabis business license fees. Previously, businesses paid a $500 upfront fee; the new structure requires half of the annual fee—nearly $2,000—up front, with the remainder due within six months.
Some dispensary owners expressed worry that the revised schedule, combined with potential increases in late fees, could strain cash flow.
“We don’t have the cash flow, and if the wording includes higher late fees, that just won’t work for us,” Lune noted. A speaker at the committee meeting echoed the sentiment, saying, “None of us cannabis businesses are hoarding money; if we’re having trouble paying fees, it may be because we’re not getting paid.”
Next steps
The city council did not vote on the ordinance during the Thursday meeting. A follow‑up session is scheduled for December, where council members will continue to debate the proposal and address the concerns raised by industry participants.
Portland residents and business owners are encouraged to attend the upcoming meeting or submit written comments to the city clerk’s office before the deadline.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
