Aurora aldermen OK medical marijuana zoning rules

The second largest city in Illinois is getting ready for the medical marijuana industry with new zoning rules.

Aldermen in Aurora unanimously approved the rules this week. They require marijuana growers and retailers to submit their plans for operations, security and disposal to the city west of Chicago after being issued a state license.

Aurora Planning Director Stephane Phifer tells The (Aurora) Beacon-News the city will require marijuana dispensary employees to be at least 21 years old and to pass a criminal background check.

Illinois is one of 23 states authorizing the use of marijuana for medical purposes. The Illinois Department of Agriculture is expected to grant 21 cultivation permits around the state later this year. Growers will sell to 60 state-approved dispensaries.