As most residents of New Jersey are aware, the sale of recreational cannabis is underway. Or, somewhat underway. Retailers and entrepreneurs have rushed to the Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) to obtain licensing and finalize other red-tape requirements in order to sell the storied plant that grows naturally around the world. While most business owners have locations in mind before hiring lawyers to navigate the lengthy application process (the CRC’s explanation of the application process is itself 31 pages long), all business owners must be aware of local ordinances before they begin selling cannabis or cannabis products.

Business owners should first have an understanding of potential fines and penalties before embarking on a bureaucratic maze that would make Rube Goldberg blush. That likely means more lawyers. While it is legal for adults over the age of 21 to own and possess up to six ounces of cannabis in New Jersey, some municipalities still prohibit its sale by way of ordinance.