Overview

On June 23, 2025, the Springfield City Council passed Chapter 275, Article IV, which prohibits the sale, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute synthetic cannabinoid products within city limits. A copy of this ordinance is linked here. 

Synthetic cannabinoids—commonly marketed as Delta-8, Delta-10, K2, Spice, or herbal incense—are chemically engineered substances designed to mimic the effects of THC but are not naturally derived from cannabis or hemp. These products are frequently sold in unlicensed establishments that are not regulated dispensaries under the Cannabis Control Commission, such as gas stations, bodegas, and convenience stores. Synthetic cannabinoids pose significant public health risks, including seizures, psychosis, and even death.

Key Provisions of the Ordinance

• Scope: Bans the sale, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute all synthetic cannabinoid products in Springfield.
• Definition: Covers all substances designed to replicate THC effects but not naturally extracted from cannabis/hemp plants.
• Products Covered: Includes all forms—smokable, ingestible, topical, or otherwise—regardless of branding or packaging.
• Penalties:
  • $300 per violation
  • Each individually packaged product counts as a separate offense
• Enforcement:
  Conducted by the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services in coordination with the Springfield Police Department.
  Prohibited products will be confiscated immediately.

Next Steps for Retailers

• Inventory Review: Immediately discontinue sales and remove all synthetic cannabinoid products from the retail property.
• Get Support:
  • Call: (413) 787-6756
  • Email: xwilliams@springfieldcityhall.com

Translation and Resource Links

• Spanish - Aviso de ordenanza que prohíbe los productos cannabinoides sintéticos en Springfield, MA
• Portuguese - Aviso de Portaria que Proíbe Produtos Canabinoides Sintéticos em Springfield, MA
• Vietnamese - Thông Báo Sắc Lệnh Cấm Các Sản Phẩm Cần Sa Tổng Hợp Tại Springfield, MA
• Arabic - إخطار بمرسوم يحظر منتجات الكانابينويد الاصطناعي في سبرينجفيلد بماساتشوستس
• Chinese - 关于马萨诸塞州斯普林菲尔德市禁止合成大麻素产品的法令通知
• Hindi - स्प्रिंगफील्ड, मैसाचुसेट्स में कृत्रिम कैनाबिनॉइड उत्पादों पर प्रतिबंध लगाने संबंधी अध्यादेश की सूचना
• Turkish - Springfield, MA’da Sentetik Kanabinoid Ürünlerini Yasaklayan Yönetmelik Hakkında Bildiri