In November 2012, Washington voters passed Initiative 502, which establishes precedent for the production, processing and retail sale of marijuana for recreational purposes. Pursuant to RCW Title 69 and the requirements of Chapter 314-55 WAC, the state has adopted rules establishing a statewide regulatory and licensing program for recreational marijuana uses.

It is the intent of these regulations to ensure that such state-licensed uses are located and developed in a manner that is consistent with the desired character and standards of this community and its neighborhoods, minimizes potential incompatibilities and impacts, and protects the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of Moses Lake. Recognizing the voter-approved right to establish certain types of recreational marijuana businesses, it is also the intent of these regulations to provide reasonable access to mitigate the illicit marijuana market and the legal and personal risks and community impacts associated with it. (Ord. 2929, 8/13/19; Ord. 2731, 9/23/14)