Depending on the state and locality there could be major differences. You didnt say where you wanted to open so its hard to direct you on what needs to be done.
So #1, choose the area you want to start. See if theres other ones there- if so the city probably is favorable towards it. It doesnt make sense to find a conservative area that doesnt want a dispensary and spend alot of $$$ litigating.
What I would tell you to do from here is to check out the free videos of attorneys we've made just to answer questions like at
Cannabis College HQ
For example if you wanted to start Colorado:
[video=youtube;PZmBuv04w8I]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZmBuv04w8I[/video]
These videos will assist you with where you want to be at.
If you have additional questions, we also do free live
webinars where you can ask any questions you have to MMJ attorneys live for free, no strings attached. The key is to be as compliant and transparent as possible with your state and municipalities laws.
Best of luck in following your dreams.