NativeCare Cannabis Dispensary opens in West St. Paul

NativeCare Cannabis Dispensary opens in West St. Paul
By Jake Spitzack | Staff Writer | March 2026

The Red Lake Nation, which opened the first recreational cannabis dispensary in the state, is opening a shop in West St. Paul.

Pending completion of renovation work, NativeCare Cannabis Dispensary is expected to open March 19 in the Ten Acres shopping center at 2001 S. Robert St. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for that date for Red Lake tribal members and dignitaries, with the public opening set for Friday, Mar. 20.

“West St Paul is a vibrant community of diverse, open-minded and intelligent people who are committed to utilizing high-quality wellness products,” said spokesperson Nokomis Paiz. “NativeCare strives to create a customer-first experience for both new and seasoned cannabis consumers…. We hope to be an easy stop for adults on their daily routines and shopping trips.”

The shop, for ages 21 and older, will offer recreational marijuana flower, pre-rolled marijuana joints, edible products and vape cartridges containing THC (the psychoactive chemical in marijuana), and high-potency concentrated THC products. A colorful mural by indigenous designer and Red Lake member Lucie Skjefte will fill one wall. Security measures include frosted windows, secure entryway with staff checking IDs and medical cards, and video cameras. Paiz said the Red Lake location has strong demand, with many customers coming from the metro area, so they expect the new location to be sufficiently busy. An additional shop is located in Thief River Falls.

West St. Paul Police Chief Brian Sturgeon shared what to expect, now that the city has a dispensary.

“If you’re in a city park smoking a little bit of weed, that’s totally legal,” he said in a recent interview. “We have no ordinance against marijuana usage outside of private property. Technically, if you are in possession of marijuana, it has to be in an original manufactured package, and if you’re transporting it in a vehicle, it has to be completely sealed.” Violation of the ordinance is a petty misdemeanor.

Based on population, state law says the city of West St. Paul must allow at least two cannabis retail shops. The city council previously set two stores as the city’s cap but could allow more in the future if it amends the ordinance. Dispensaries must be located at a predetermined distance from schools, daycares and parks. Additionally, low-potency gummies, seltzers and other edible products containing THC are legal to sell at grocery stores, restaurants, liquor and tobacco stores, and other businesses. Those sellers must obtain a state license.

According to state law, Minnesota residents may legally possess two ounces of marijuana flower in public and two pounds at home; grow up to eight marijuana plants on their property; and use marijuana products in private areas. Use in public spaces is determined by city ordinance. It is illegal to use marijuana while in a motor vehicle.