Rhode Island Cannabis Retail Market Update – December 2025
The application deadline in Rhode Island just passed this Monday. The Cannabis Control Commission approved a statewide social consumption framework and Pawtucket initiated its first retail zoning ordinance. For retailers, this month delivered both expansion tools for existing operators and potential market openings in previously closed jurisdictions.
Top Headlines This Month
- Application deadline update
- CCC approves social consumption regulations for dispensaries and hospitality venues
- Pawtucket proposes zoning amendment to allow retail in industrial zones
📋 Application Deadline Update
Rhode Island’s retail cannabis license application window closed Monday, December 29, 2025. We wish all applicants the best of luck through the review process.
The Cannabis Control Commission has not yet released the total number of applications submitted, but we are monitoring closely and will provide updates as data becomes available.
CannDev was able to secure 12 real estate locations and worked with our retail partners on submitting retail applications in time by the deadline.
🏛️ Statewide – CCC Approves Social Cannabis Consumption Framework
The Setup:
On December 11, 2025, the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission unanimously approved regulations creating three license categories for social consumption: supplemental (for existing cannabis businesses), hospitality (for non-cannabis venues), and event organizer (for temporary consumption at events). Alcohol is prohibited in consumption areas, shelf-stable snacks and THC inhibitors are permitted, and impairment-recognition training is mandatory.
The Impact:
This creates new revenue streams for existing Rhode Island cannabis retail operators who can now add on-site consumption without opening a separate location. It also opens the door for restaurants, cafes, and event spaces to enter the cannabis hospitality market without holding a retail license. Retailers gain a competitive edge by offering consumption lounges that keep customers on-site longer and increase per-visit spending.
The Opportunity:
Existing dispensaries should evaluate their current layouts for supplemental license compatibility. Hospitality operators near tourist districts or entertainment zones have first-mover advantages. Event organizers can pilot consumption at concerts, festivals, and private gatherings. Early adopters will shape consumer expectations and capture market share before saturation.
Strategic Angle:
File supplemental license applications before Q1 2026. Early entrants secure prime locations and build brand recognition as consumption destinations before competitors react.
🆕 Pawtucket – New Market Alert – City Proposes Changes to Retail Cannabis Zoning Ordinance
The Setup:
On December 10, 2025, Pawtucket’s City Council introduced a zoning amendment to allow retail cannabis sales by special use permit in industrial open and manufacturing buildup zones. The ordinance includes review criteria for traffic, public safety, and neighborhood compatibility. The council is expected to refer the proposal to subcommittee and the Planning Commission. Pawtucket currently prohibits retail cannabis.
The Impact:
Ground-floor opportunity in newly opening market. Pawtucket is a city of 75,000 residents with no existing retail cannabis access. The proposed ordinance would make retail possible for the first time via special use permits in limited industrial zones. This is a major shift from a blanket prohibition to regulated access. First movers can secure prime industrial sites before competition intensifies.
The Opportunity:
Identify industrial open and manufacturing buildup parcels in Pawtucket now. Research current property owners and assess site suitability for cannabis retail in Rhode Island before the ordinance passes. Connect with Planning Commission staff and Ward Councilors to understand approval criteria. Early site control and community engagement will position you ahead of competitors who wait for final ordinance passage.
Strategic Angle:
Map target sites and initiate property owner conversations. Pawtucket’s first retail licenses will go to operators who demonstrate community support and compliance readiness.
The Bottom Line
Rhode Island cannabis retail operators gained new revenue opportunities in December with social consumption licensing, while Pawtucket advanced site-specific and citywide retail access. Keep an eye on Pawtucket’s ordinance through Planning Commission review. Retailers should file consumption license applications early and secure industrial sites in newly opening jurisdictions before Q1 2026.
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