On November 7, 2023, Ohio officially became the 24th state to legalize adult-use cannabis, unlocking a plethora of new opportunities in the market. With the state set to become a key player in this multi-billion-dollar industry, now is the ideal time to secure a license and launch your cannabis business. If you’re wondering how to get a cannabis business license in Ohio or aiming to be part of this thriving sector, this post is just for you.
What Types of Cannabis Business Licenses Exist in Ohio?
- Medical
- Adult-Use
How To Get Your Cannabis Business License in Ohio
Securing a cannabis license in Ohio is a multi-step process, meticulously regulated to uphold legal and safety standards. Here’s a simple guide to help you get a cannabis business license in Ohio.
Know the State Regulations: Before getting into Ohio’s cannabis market, it is important to get familiar with the regulations and provisions.
Licensing Costs and Requirements: Explore the financial aspects and prerequisites associated with obtaining an adult-use or medical marijuana dispensary license in Ohio. Familiarize yourself with the application process, ensuring adherence to specified criteria.
Obtain a Certificate of Operation: It is an official document affirming a business’s compliance with regulations, confirming its legal authorization to operate in a specific location or industry. It serves as tangible proof of meeting necessary standards. Hence, to operate the business legally, it is essential to obtain a certificate of operation.
Strategic Business Blueprint: Create a solid business plan, financial plan, and operational plan for your cannabis business. This plan must cover how your business will work, how you’ll manage money, and how to perform day-to-day operations.
Facility Plans: Getting a cannabis business license in Ohio is serious business. Hence, you need to be sure where you’re going to operate your store. Moreover, to operate legally, you must choose a location that adheres to state and federal rules. Make sure your preferred location is at least five hundred feet away from places like parks, libraries, playgrounds, and worship places.
When you’re planning to open a dispensary, follow the local zoning provisions for smooth operations.
Local Zoning Compliance:
- Begin by thoroughly examining local zoning laws to guarantee alignment with your business activities.
- Ensure that your chosen location adheres to zoning regulations, laying a solid foundation for licensing approval.
State-Approved Business Location:
- Secure a location that not only complies with local zoning laws but also meets the specific state requirements for your type of cannabis business.
- This careful selection ensures harmony with state regulations, a pivotal factor in the successful acquisition of your cannabis business license.
Paying careful attention to where your business is located is a big deal—it’s a crucial step to make sure you’re following all the important rules for getting your license. Location regulatory guidelines are as follows:
Cultivator Licenses:
- Divide the area into two parts, Level 1 should be up to 25,000 sq. Ft. and Level 2 should be up to 3,000 sq. ft.
- For a grow facility applicant must meet a minimum of $750,000 in liquid assets and mandatory residency requirements.
Processor Licenses:
- Requires a minimum of $250,000 in liquid assets and meeting residency criteria.
- Processors transform raw cannabis into diverse products like oils, tinctures, and edibles.
Dispensary Licenses:
- High-demand licenses necessitate a minimum of $250,000 in liquid assets.
- Qualifications include having a qualified pharmacist on staff and meeting residency requirements.
- Only one dispensary license per 50,000 residents in a county.
What are the Cannabis Business License Requirements in Ohio?
The Division of Cannabis Control can issue a license to an individual applicant involved in adult-use cannabis operations or an adult-use testing laboratory. The license will be granted after confirming the applicant’s eligibility after receiving fees and as per the regulations of the board.
Requirements:
Applicants must be at least 21 years old. The application must be submitted in a form specified by the Division of Cannabis Control. The application must contain all the required information.
Applicants must submit two sets of fingerprints and a photograph with each application. The division charges an application fee, covering regulatory costs and background checks.
A license issued under this section is versatile and can be used at any adult-use cannabis operator or testing laboratory, provided the licensee is registered with the division for each specific location of work or employment.
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Cannabis Business in Ohio?
In Ohio, both adult-use and medical cannabis are legally allowed, and you can choose the business as per your preferences and personal interests. However, it’s vital to know that each category comes with distinct costs associated with various license types.
Operating a licensed dispensary in Ohio involves significant expenses, demanding substantial funding to initiate and consistent revenue to sustain licensure. Renewal is mandatory annually or biannually, depending on your specific license type. The estimated costs for Ohio licensing are as follows:
- Application Fee: $5,000 non-refundable
- License Maintenance: $80,000 every two years after approval
- Annual Renewal Fee: $80,000
Staffing and setup costs:
- Employee Registration: $100-$500 per employee
- Dispensary Setup/Renovation: Additional $5,000
Compliance checklist:
- Reserved Funds: Owners must keep $250,000 for uncertainties.
- Business Plan: Present a one-year plan for fund and expense management.
Additional fees for specific situations:
- Relocation: $5,000
- Change in Ownership: $5,000
- Employee ID Card: $50
- Reissued Certificate: $50
What are the Adult Use Dispensary License Regulations?
(A) The license holder can:
- Acquire adult-use cannabis from processors, cultivators, and other dispensaries.
- Distribute, transfer, or sell adult-use cannabis to cannabis operators.
- Offer delivery services for cannabis and paraphernalia following established rules.
- Dispense or sell adult-use cannabis and related paraphernalia.
(B) Guidelines for dispensing or selling adult-use cannabis include:
- Selling only to consumers aged 21 or older with valid identification.
- Accepting prepackaged and labeled cannabis from licensed operators.
- Adhering to possession limits.
(C) Operating guidelines for an Adult Use Dispensary:
- Employ only licensed individuals meeting training requirements.
- Provide addiction services information materials upon request to adult-use consumers.
Wrap Up:
Getting a cannabis business license in Ohio is like planning a big project. To secure your cannabis license in Ohio, familiarize yourself with cannabis regulations, grasp the eligibility criteria, and meet the application requirements. By following the above guidelines and staying informed about Ohio’s revised codes you can improve your application and your chances of becoming a part of this booming industry.
If you have any doubts or need further assistance, reach out to our experts here.