LOWER TOWNSHIP - Our community's cannabis marketplace is growing. Lower Township has officially opened the door for a third recreational cannabis dispensary to set up shop within municipal boundaries, marking a significant expansion of the local retail landscape.
The Township Council adopted Ordinance No. 2026-15 on August 3, modifying local land development and mercantile licensing regulations. The change raises the ceiling on Class 5 cannabis retail licenses from two to three, effectively allowing one additional dispensary to operate in the township.
The ordinance was first introduced during a council meeting on July 20, giving residents and stakeholders time to weigh in before the final vote earlier this month.
Class 5 licenses represent the retail tier of New Jersey's regulated cannabis industry. Businesses holding these state-issued permits are authorized to purchase cannabis products from licensed cultivators, manufacturers, and wholesalers, then sell those items directly to adult consumers.
Until now, Lower Township had capped the number of retail cannabis operations at two locations. The expansion reflects the municipality's evolving approach to the recreational cannabis market as the industry continues to mature across Cape May County and the broader state.
The decision positions Lower Township among the Cape May County communities embracing cannabis commerce, potentially bringing additional tax revenue and business activity to the area while maintaining regulatory oversight through the licensing framework.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
