While the Alberta Government has basically outlined how cannabis will be retailed, there are still far too many details missing for municipalities to establish their guidelines.

The Town of Cochrane is awaiting more guidance from the provincial government before it can set its rules governing cannabis retail outlets, says Mike Korman, the town's economic development manager.

"We are currently waiting for the province to give us a few more guidelines because we're not sure where they're going to go with it. But we are aware we don't currently have any specific definitions as far as cannabis retail outlets or dispensaries so, as part of a wider land use bylaw review, we are looking at putting in some language in regards to dispensaries."

Until then, economic development won't be going before council with recommendations.

"Getting council's opinion and the opinions of stakeholders are very important, so we don't want to overstep until we know what we have to do provincially."

What has been made clear is cannabis retail outlets must be stand alone specialty shops that comply with federal, provincial and municipal rules. Retailers will be regulated on hours of operation, background checks will be required of owners, staff will have to be 18 years of age or older and training must be provided.

Specific regulations won't be established until early in the New Year. Legislation surrounding taxation and, if required, workplace safety issues is scheduled to follow in the spring.

The town has been receiving inquiries about cannabis retail opportunities in Cochrane.

"I wouldn't say it has been hectic, but there have been some inquiries," says Korman.

Last year, council did approve amendments to the land-use bylaw that outlines rules for marijuana horticultural operations within the municipalities. They can be established on land zoned M-1 general industrial.

Late last week, the Alberta government updated its framework that, among other things, outlined the distribution model.

Cannabis will be available for purchase online immediately following legalization through a government-operated service, ensuring the availability of product for Albertans even if retail outlets aren't operating in their communities. The retail outlets will be overseen by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission and be governed by what will soon become known as the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act.