Why Can’t Colorado Golf Courses Sell Marijuana?

Dear Stoner: Could a golf course in Denver open a dispensary on the grounds? I saw an Instagram post about a mini-dispensary on the ninth hole, and I’d love to have that option in Colorado.
Arnie King Palmer

Dear Arnie King Palmer: I’ve seen so much debauchery on the golf course, much of which is proudly shared on social media. A dispensary at the clubhouse or on the ninth hole lines up well with those substance-fueled days on the links, especially in Colorado and other places where cannabis sales are legal. Plenty of golfers are hitting joints and vape pens on the course, so why not make money off us?

One course in Kingston, Washington, was able to open a small dispensary that’s gone viral on social media, so it is possible in other states. Adding a dispensary to a Colorado golf course isn’t easy, however, as properties with liquor licenses are banned from allowing cannabis sales or consumption here — and that’s still not counting the complex insurance policies involved. Until state laws change or a privately owned course gets creative with its property parcels, we’re probably a long way from having licensed pot sales at Colorado golf courses. As if I need one more thing to overpay for, anyway.

If you’re looking for a cannabis-centric crowd to golf with, you’re not alone. The Cannabis Golf League meets regularly around Denver for individual rounds and tournaments from spring through fall, if you ever want to join a foursome.

Send questions to marijuana@westword.com