Pot cultivation rules get final OK

A set of rules and regulations governing the personal cultivation of marijuana got its second and final approval by the Westminster City Council on Wednesday night.

The council voted 4-0, with Mayor Pro Tem Tyler Diep abstaining, on the second reading of the ordinance, which will go into effect in 30 days.

While the personal use of “pot” is legal in California under Proposition 64, cities have the power to regulate its sale and cultivation. People growing marijuana for personal consumption may have as many as six plants. Westminster’s ordinance puts in place these rules:

• a cultivation permit from the city is required, with associated fees. City workers have the right to inspect property that’s been issued a permit;
• cultivation is allowed only within fully enclosed structures not accessible to minors;
• only one cultivation area is allowed;
• those under 18 should not have access to the area;
• the cultivation area can’t exceed 25 square feet;
• ventilation must prevent marijuana smoke or odors from annoying the neighbors;
• city taxes on marijuana must be paid.

Westminster does not allow the commercial sale of recreational marijuana.

Also on Wednesday, the council gave its approval on a 5-0 vote to a request from the Garden Grove Unified School District to hang banners along Brookhurst Street from Hazard to McFadden avenues to honor the academic achievements of GGUSD students.

The district serves about one-third of Westminster’s school-age residents.