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AB 2697

Cannabis: drive-throughs.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gail Pellerin

Local jurisdictions may authorize licensed cannabis retailers to offer drive-through/exterior sales on premises using a fixed-pane window and security drawer, compliant with state

Referred to Com. on B. P. & E.D.
#cannabis #drive-throughs
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 2697

Summary of AB 2697 (2025-2026) — Cannabis: drive-throughs

Main purpose and intent

AB 2697 would authorize, at the local level, licensed cannabis retailers to operate drive-through styles and related exterior sales methods (drive-through, pass-out window, or slide-out tray) by using a fixed-pane security window with a security drawer for the transfer of cannabis products. The bill clarifies that such operations would be permissible only if they occur within a licensed premises and comply with applicable state and local rules. It is targeted at allowing customer purchases in motor vehicles while maintaining security and regulatory controls.

Key provisions and changes

  • New authority to local jurisdictions (26204(a)): Local governments may authorize a licensed cannabis retailer or microbusiness to conduct sales or deliveries at a drive-through, pass-out window, or slide-out tray that is exterior to the licensed premises, provided the sales are conducted through a fixed-pane security window with a security drawer and are located on the retailer’s premises.
  • Compliance requirement (26204(b)): Drive-through or exterior transfer must be carried out in accordance with the California Cannabis Regulatory framework (Medicinal and Adult-Use Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act) and any regulations adopted by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC).
  • ** grandfathering for pre-2027 operations (26204(b)(2))**: If a retailer or microbusiness had already conducted drive-through sales in compliance with state/local law before January 1, 2027, they are not subject to the stricter requirement of the fixed-pane security window with a security drawer.
  • Exclusions (26204(c)): The provision does not apply to licensees that sell exclusively via delivery, or to those that do not maintain a premises open to the public for retail sales.
  • General compliance (26204(d)): Sales under this section must comply with the existing division and any regulations adopted by the DCC.
  • Local authority preserved (26204(e)): The bill does not limit a local jurisdiction’s authority under existing law to regulate drive-through sales that are authorized by this section.

Who would be affected

  • Licensed cannabis retailers and microbusinesses that operate storefront retail within premises and wish to offer drive-through, pass-out window, or slide-out tray service to customers in motor vehicles.
  • Local jurisdictions that may choose to adopt and regulate these drive-through style sales within their zoning, licensing, and public safety frameworks.
  • Retailers that currently operate exclusively through delivery or do not maintain a public storefront would not be covered by this provision.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Legislative status and history: Introduced February 20, 2026 by Assembly Member Pellerin; amended and moved through committees with multiple approvals in 2026.
  • Effective date considerations: The bill references a transition rule related to pre-2027 drive-through operations. Specific operative dates beyond that are tied to standard regulatory adoption by the DCC and local enactment.
  • Status as of latest actions: Passed multiple committee stages with “Do pass” recommendations; moved to third reading in May 2026, indicating active consideration toward enactment.

Practical impact and considerations

  • Enables built-in security features (fixed-pane window and security drawer) for exterior sales, potentially reducing contact with cash handling and improving controlled transfer.
  • Local control means some California communities may permit drive-through cannabis sales while others may not; local ordinances would determine where and how these operations are allowed.
  • Compliance with state regulations remains central; operations must align with DCC rules and any local licensing requirements.
  • The grandfathering provision provides flexibility for retailers already operating under prior rules, easing the transition for existing drive-through practices.

If you’d like, I can provide a side-by-side comparison with current law on drive-through restrictions and a brief outline of potential local ordinance considerations for cities/counties.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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