The city of Port Hueneme will no longer be accepting new applications for retail cannabis dispensaries – at least not for the foreseeable future. On Feb. 17, the City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that reduces the maximum number of retail cannabis dispensaries, delivery-only businesses, and manufacturing and distribution businesses allowed in the city.

The new restriction, which officials say is designed to help existing operators contend with a saturated local market, will come into effect on March 20. Officials said the restrictions would also increase opportunities and retail space for other types of businesses.

“It seems like a no-brainer, but it’s kind of like adding by subtracting for economic development,” City Manager James Vega said during a Feb. 2 discussion on the issue.

Port Hueneme was the first city in the county to begin recreational cannabis production after the state legalized it in 2018. Employees said they wanted to profit from development contracts with businesses.