St. Catharines, ON – May 19, 2025

The St. Catharines City Council is preparing for what could be a major shift in its cannabis retail policy. In a public meeting scheduled for next week, council members will debate a proposal to expand cannabis retail zones across the city in a move designed to fuel local economic growth and create new jobs.

Currently, cannabis retailers are restricted to select commercial zones, leaving many areas underserved—especially in the city’s north and west ends. The proposed amendment would allow licensed cannabis stores to operate in more neighborhoods, including mixed-use residential zones and near tourist corridors.

Economic Development Officer Paul Kingston said in a statement, “Expanding retail access will not only increase tax revenue but also help level the playing field by reducing the dominance of a few high-traffic locations.”

However, not everyone is on board. Several neighborhood associations have voiced concerns about retail clustering, potential youth exposure, and impacts on residential property values. City officials confirmed that any expansion would still require strict compliance with provincial regulations, including setback distances from schools and sensitive areas.

Retailers like UpHi Cannabis Emporium and Niagara Greenleaf have expressed support for the motion, noting that new zones would allow them to better serve customers in underrepresented communities. “We get calls every day from customers in the north end asking why there’s nothing closer to them,” said a spokesperson from UpHi.

The final vote is expected by month’s end. If passed, new business licenses could be issued as early as this summer.