05-02-2025
Denver proposes licensing rules for psychedelic centers
Denver's licensing department on Wednesday detailed a preliminary framework for regulating psychedelic therapy.
Why it matters: These rules will determine how the city licenses a burgeoning treatment option as the state expects to start issuing permits for healing centers and providers this spring.
The big picture: The city's Department of Excise and Licenses will oversee healing centers, which can offer natural medicines like psilocybin for supervised treatment thanks to a 2022 measure approved by voters.
The department presented its proposed regulations before a Denver City Council committee.
Context: The proposed rules would require a local license for healing centers, meaning these sites would need to obtain both a state and local permit to open in Denver.
Yes, but: No local licenses would be needed for cultivation, manufacturing or testing facilities under the proposal; these services would rely solely on state permitting.
American Indian tribes performing religious ceremonies and certain treatment providers with additional state licensing would also be exempt from getting a local healing center license.
By the numbers: Fees include $100 for an application and $100 annually for renewal.
What they're saying: Council President Amanda Sandoval during Wednesday's meeting said she supports adding regulations on top of state ones because they give Denver local control and oversight.
Between the lines: Licensing staff recommend adopting state location restrictions on healing centers, including a 1,000-foot buffer from childcare centers and schools.
The intrigue: The proposals include repealing a Denver law passed in 2019 allowing adults to possess psychedelics, with licensing staff saying the 2022 state law makes the local law obsolete.
What's next: The full Denver City Council will hold a final vote on the proposed rules on Feb. 24.
