Edina has established its local framework for legal cannabis sales, approving ordinance amendments that will permit retail stores in all three of the city's commercial zoning districts. The regulations treat cannabis retailers similarly to tobacco and liquor stores, allowing them in neighborhoods like Valley View, Wooddale, the 50th and France area, and the Southdale District.

The city set an initial cap of five retail licenses, based on a state formula that allows one license per 12,500 residents. With Edina's population of approximately 62,500, the city maxed out its allowable licenses under state guidelines. City officials noted that spreading retailers across multiple commercial zones was a deliberate choice to prevent concentration in any single neighborhood.

The new rules include several restrictions designed to protect sensitive areas. Cannabis stores must maintain a 500-foot buffer from schools, daycare facilities, and residential treatment centers. Retailers will be limited to operating between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily.

While retail sales will be permitted in commercial areas, the city restricted other cannabis operations to industrial zones. Cultivation, manufacturing, processing, wholesaling, testing, transportation, and delivery businesses must operate in enclosed buildings within industrial districts. The council approved the amendments without recorded opposition. The regulations take effect as Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management prepares to begin issuing retail licenses later this year, making Edina one of many Minnesota cities establishing local rules ahead of the state program's launch.