Memorandum 16-082 Hash Oil and THC Extraction

Memorandum 16-082

TO:                       Katie Koester, City Manager

FROM:                 Robert Painter, Fire Chief

DATE:                  May 12, 2016

SUBJECT:         Proposed Hash Oil Production Ordinance

The non-regulated production of hash oil, also known as butter, honey oil, dabs or wax, by unlicensed individuals has become a concern of fire safety officials across the country, especially in those states where marijuana has been legalized. While there are many methods available to concentrate the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) found in marijuana, extraction and concentration through the use of “hot” methods, for example using highly flammable butane, has been identified as a danger to the public and first responders and has been prohibited in many jurisdictions. There are well documented cases in which these home-based extraction methods have resulted in explosions and fires, causing injury and property damage.

The proposed Homer City Ordinance adding a new chapter 5.44 Prohibited Acts Regarding Marijuana, I believe, adequately addresses my concerns by prohibiting the production of concentrates by these potentially dangerous methods, except where expressly allowed by state law, in commercial extraction and/or concentration facilities, regulated by state fire code. I believe that the general public, if they still desire to attempt extraction/concentration in their private homes, may still do so using available “cold” or non-volatile production methods not addressed under this addition under Title 5.

Recommendation:

Informational only.