Colorado: Denver to finally open its first Cannabis Club«

The city of Denver granted its first license last Monday to a business that will allow customers to consume cannabis on its premises. The Coffee Joint will charge an admission fee of 5$ and allow customers to consume cannabis in the form of’edible or brewed. Coffee and tea will be free.

Denver had approved in 2016 a pilot program to allow the «social use» of cannabis. Interested businesses, such as cafes and art galleries, could then apply—though not without some bureaucratic hurdles and only after receiving approval from the neighborhood. The Coffee Joint was the first store to apply and faced no opposition. Businesses that also serve alcohol were excluded from the program.

While nine states have legalized cannabis in the United States, no state has yet allowed its consumption at the point of purchase. The lack of places to consume it poses a certain challenge. for tourists and residents who are only allowed to consume alcohol on private property.

Denver's pilot program was the first of its kind. Alaska, the Nevada and the Massachusetts are also considering implementing a similar project.

Denver received its second accreditation application this month. The Utopia All Natural Wellness Spa and Lounge hopes to offer cannabis-infused massages, such as ganja yoga and others cannabis-friendly events.

In fact, California has long been home to lounges unlicensed establishments where cannabis use is permitted. After the state legalized cannabis last January, San Francisco decided to issue licenses for these establishments.

In Massachusetts, some private smoking clubs, such as the Summit Lounge allow the consumption of «anything that is legal in Massachusetts.».