Guidance for Cannabis Licensees during COVID-19 restrictions

Cannabis Licensees,

As communicated previously, the Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) has been working quickly to consider steps the agency can take to help licensees throughout this period of business restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are making some temporary modifications to allow businesses to act quickly and minimize their impacts on disease transmission.

Our intent is to allow additional ways for you to engage your customers without having to have your doors open for business. Please note however, the agency does not have authority to change state laws. Unless indicated otherwise, these temporary modifications are effective immediately and in place through Gov. Inslee’s Emergency Declaration period or until rescinded by the LCB, whichever is sooner.

Guidance for Cannabis Licenses: Effective Immediately

Curbside Service

  • Applies to: Cannabis Retailers
    At this time, cannabis producers, processors and retailers are considered essential and not required to close due to the coronavirus restrictions. However, to promote social distancing, the LCB is temporarily expanding curbside sales beyond qualified medical patients to allow sales to all adult customers as long as certain restrictions are in place.  This is an option in addition to mandatory measures for retail establishments set forth by Gov. Inslee and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
     

Restrictions

  • Drive-thru windows are not allowed;
  • IDs must be checked -- no one in the car may be less than 21 years of age;
  • Curbside sales areas must be stationary and physically designated on the leasehold property, preferably as close to the building as possible. Examples of physical designations for curbside service include:
    • Tape or painted parking spots for vehicle parking;
    • Cones or signage for vehicle parking;
  • Where possible, video cameras should be monitoring and recording the designated sales area;
  • Outdoor sales from a tent or kiosk are not allowed.
     

Taxes, Fees and Penalties
In addition, the LCB is actively pursuing deferment and a waiver of the penalties for late payment of taxes. Taxes would still be due but could be paid late without penalties. This will require a proclamation from the Governor. More on this soon.