This map shows where marijuana stores could be built in Chesterfield County

Chesterfield is eyeing its first draft of an updated ordinance that will regulate marijuana sales in the county. One key element is that county approval will be needed for any retail location, even if that site is zoned to allow a marijuana-related business.

The proposal ties retail marijuana to conditional use permits. This means businesses need the Board of Supervisors’ public approval before setting up shop. Under this draft, they can only do so in pre-approved zones.

So, where could these businesses go in Chesterfield? The four main corridors are, from north to south, Midlothian Turnpike, Hull Street Road, Iron Bridge Road and Highway 1.

Retail-eligible parcels:

Processing facility-eligible parcels:

Delivery and testing-eligible parcels

The state mandates that marijuana can’t be sold where tobacco, vape or alcohol products are also on shelves. Those locations can be nearby, but marijuana-related businesses can’t be within 2,000 feet of each other.

There’s also a 1,000-foot restricted zone around schools, hospitals and daycares. 

Local governments are allowed some flexibility in this. Hanover is looking at expanding that restricted zone from 1,000 feet to a mile. Henrico added religious institutions, playgrounds and public parks to its list of restricted facilities.

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The RichmonderMark Newton

In its first draft, Chesterfield isn’t pursuing either at the moment and instead is using the state standards. The three eligible zones — corridor commercial, employment general, and warehouse and distribution — were included because they fit Virginia’s guidelines. Since things are still in the early stages, restrictions (like the ones Hanover and Henrico are considering) could be added in the future.

As for next steps, this is the latest in what will be a months-long affair.

Chesterfield wants to finalize its ordinance before February 2027, since that’s when the state will begin accepting license applications. The Cannabis Control Authority is Virginia’s regulatory body. Retail marijuana sales in Virginia will officially kick off in July 2027.

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Another set number of licenses will be set aside for “impact” licensees.

The RichmonderMolly Manning

Businesses don’t have to notify localities that they want to move in until after their application is approved. However, the state lets local governments control exactly where these facilities are allowed. This is why Chesterfield, Henrico and Hanover are now amending their zoning ordinances.

The commission will consider this first draft during its Tuesday meeting, and then vote on it next month. If approved, it’ll move on to the Board of Supervisors.

Contact Eleanor Shaw at eshaw@richmonder.org. She is a Report for America corps member.