Ordinance gets overhaul

Have we heard enough about Butte County’s medical-marijuana-cultivation ordinance yet? Apparently not. But a press release from the administration including some of the major revisions likely will leave residents who opposed the original proposed ordinance breathing a little easier. Most of the fees were slashed, the number of plants allowed on small parcels was increased, and the required distance gardens must be set back from the property line was reduced. The new draft ordinance will be discussed at a special Board of Supervisors meeting May 4, 5:30 p.m., at the Elks Lodge in Chico. Below you’ll find a chart comparing the major requirements in the original and new proposed legislation.

Original

• On all lots bigger than 1 acre, a $40 zip tie is required per plant.

• On lots up to 1 acre, just two mature plants, 10-foot setback, no permit fee.

• Between 1 and 20 acres, up to 12 mature plants and 100-foot setback. Permit fee: $832.

• Between 20 and 160 acres, up to 30 mature plants and 300-foot setback. Permit: $1,072

• Bigger than 160 acres, up to 99 mature plants and 1,000-foot setback. Permit: $1,231

New

• Permit fees are set at $285, regardless of lot size, and are waived for six plants or fewer. Zip-tie program eliminated.

• On lots up to 1.5 acres, up to six mature plants.

• Between 1.5 and 20 acres, up to 12 mature plants and 100-foot setback.

• Between 20 and 80 acres, up to 24 mature plants and 250-foot setback.

• Between 80 and 160 acres, up to 36 mature plants and 500-foot setback.

• Bigger than 160 acres, up to 99 mature plants and 700-foot setback.