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In a historic move, New York legalized adult-use cannabis, setting forth a green wave of opportunities. The New York Office of Cannabis Management oversees the regulations, ensuring safe cultivation and distribution practices within the state.
Is Cannabis Legal in New York?
Yes, cannabis is legal in New York for adults 21 and older, under the governance of the New York cannabis laws. These regulations detail everything from business ownership restrictions to compliance guidelines, ensuring the safety and fairness of the marijuana industry in the state.
As a cannabis cultivator in New York, you’ll be at the very heart of the industry, nurturing the plants that will eventually become quality, lab-tested marijuana products. The role of cultivators is pivotal, providing processed cannabis for further refinement, distribution, and sale.
As a Licensed Cannabis Cultivator, you’re allowed to:
- Grow, clone, harvest, dry, cure, grade, and trim cannabis plants.
- Sell such cannabis to a processor, or process marijuana products under their own processor license.
Note: Cultivators aiming to process their own cannabis products must acquire an adult-use processor license.
Ownership Restrictions
In New York, individuals (except passive investors) cannot own interests in more than one cultivation license or any other license that allows marijuana cultivation. However, a cultivator can also hold one processor license and one distributor license, as well as a nursery license, pending availability through the Office of Cannabis Management. Direct or indirect ownership in a retail dispensary, delivery, or on-site consumption license is prohibited for cultivators or their true parties of interest.
How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Cannabis Cultivation License in New York?
Starting your cannabis cultivation operation in New York requires an application fee of $1,000 for each application. It’s vital to consider this cost in your initial business planning and budgeting.
Fee Reduction for SEE Applicants
Social and Economic Equity (SEE) applicants are eligible for a 50% reduction in application and license fees, promoting fair opportunities in the New York cannabis industry.
What is the Deadline for Applying for a Cannabis Cultivation License in New York?
For prospective cannabis entrepreneurs, it’s crucial to be ready when the application window opens. The critical dates are as follows:
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Adult-Use Applications Open: October 4, 2023
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Adult-Use Applications Close: December 18, 2023, at 5:00 PM EST
Make sure you have all your requirements and paperwork ready by these dates to avoid missing out on the opportunity.
What are the Requirements for Getting a Cannabis Cultivation License in New York?
Before diving into the application process, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements set by New York State. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and not prohibited from holding a license due to previous non-cannabis convictions as stated in Section 137 of New York State cannabis adult-use regulations or True Parties of Interest (TPI) prohibitions.
Securing a Compliant Location
Prospective cultivators must provide proof of control over the proposed cultivation premises, including a certificate of occupancy or its equivalent, before beginning licensed operations.
Note: All premises for licensed activities must be disclosed to the NYS Office of Cannabis Management.
How CannDelta Can Help
Whether you're figuring out how to apply for a cannabis license in New York or need assistance drafting airtight business plans and SOPs, CannDelta is your go-to consultancy. Our comprehensive services take you through every step required to start a cannabis business in New York.
