Council moves to raise limit on cannabis businesses

City News February 13, 2026

The Albert Lea City Council voted Feb. 9 to introduce changes to local cannabis ordinances, including raising the local limit from two to four registrations within City of Albert Lea limits. The city has registered two cannabis businesses so far, neither of which has opened yet due to issues with product availability.

Other changes would include:

• More extensive background checks for registration applicants
• Limit of 1 registration per applicant
• No transfer of registration or change in ownership without city approval
• Allowing some use of cannabis – with restrictions – at temporary events

The changes require two votes with the second vote scheduled for Feb. 23.

How to learn more and share input:

• Watch the Feb. 9 city council meeting on YouTube
• Read the draft ordinances
• Contact a city councilor
• Speak at the Feb. 23 meeting, 7 p.m., top floor of City Hall, 221 E. Clark St.