Securing a dispensary license in Maryland comes with its own challenges due to strict regulations and guidelines. Whether you have experience as an entrepreneur or are new to the marijuana industry, understanding the dos and don’ts of the application process is crucial. Hence, in this post, we’ll discuss the essential do’s and don’ts of obtaining a Maryland dispensary license, guiding you to a successful entry into the cannabis market.
What are the Dispensary Application Requirements Do’s and Don’ts?
Application Submission:
Do:
- Submit a complete application to the Administration for a license.
- Submit your application within the 30-day period set by the Administration.
- Ensure the application complies with the established requirements under Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §36-404, Annotated Code of Maryland.
Don’t:
- Submit incomplete application
- Submitting false or misleading written applications to the Administration
- Submitting application after the deadline
Application Form & Fee:
Do:
- Complete the application form designated by the Administration.
- Accompany the application with the specified application fee according to COMAR 14.17.21.
Don’t:
- Neglect to include the required application fee.
Listing on Applications:
Do:
- Ensure that the applicant, including any related individual or entity, is listed on only one application per license type per application round.
- Adhere to the limit of two applications for any license type per application round for the same applicant.
Don’t:
- Violate the listing restrictions, as violators may not be considered for licensure.
Property Ownership Requirement:
Do:
- Understand that the Administration does not require applicants to possess or own any property or facility at the time of application for operating a cannabis business.
Don’t:
- While submitting your license application, you’re not obligated to provide the operating location. However, it’s necessary to finalize the operating location before your final license is issued.
Social Equity Verification:
Do:
- Allow the Administration to verify an applicant’s status as a social equity applicant before the initial application and licensure.
- Submit accurate information supporting social equity status, as it is considered part of the application.
Don’t:
- Provide false or misleading information regarding social equity status.
These guidelines ensure a smooth and compliant application process for individuals or entities seeking a cannabis dispensary license in Maryland.
What is the Maryland Dispensary Application- Dos and Don’ts?
Check out the essential Maryland dispensary license- do’s and don’ts to ensure a successful application process. Below are the vital pointers to guide you through the smooth dispensary application process:
Application Review:
Do:
- Prove your qualifications by providing a detailed operational plan, a business plan demonstrating likelihood of success, and a comprehensive diversity plan
- Provide all required documentation specified by MMCC, including a site plan, floor plan, and security plan
- Ensure your application is complete, truthful, and meets minimum qualifications for the lottery
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information, failure to do so within 10 days may result in denial
- Reside in a disproportionately impacted area for five of the past ten years.
- Attend a public school in a disproportionately impacted area for at least five years
- Understand and meet the minimum qualifications communicated by the Administration before the application period
- All applicants and individuals within the ownership structure must be 21 years of age or older
- Demonstrate financial stability with proof of funds and investment capital.
- Fulfill remaining requirements, such as obtaining inventory and hiring staff, before commencing operations
- Maintain at least 65% ownership and control by individuals meeting specific criteria
- Attend a Maryland 4-year institution with a minimum of two years, where at least 40% of attendees are eligible for a Pell Grant
Don’t:
- Submit incomplete applications, applications with misstatements, or submitting application after the deadline
- Neglect requests for additional information like non-compliance within 10 days may lead to denial
- Neglecting security requirements may jeopardize your application
- Providing misleading or false financial information or not providing accurate statements and proof of funds
- Failing to adhere to regulations can also result in delays or rejection.
Looking out for the Maryland dispensary application process requires attention to detail, transparency, and adherence to communicated guidelines. By following these Maryland dispensary application do’s and avoiding the specified don’ts will increase the chances of winning a Maryland dispensary license.
What are the Maryland Dispensary License- Do’s and Don’ts?
Conditional License Approval:
Do:
- Ensure all individuals or entities in the supplemental license application have clean records and meet eligibility criteria.
- Submit a complete supplemental license application, revealing all material facts about your qualifications.
- Pay the specified license fee (COMAR 14.17.21) and pass all inspections.
Don’t:
- Attempt to fraudulently obtain a license or withhold material facts.
- Delay becoming licensed and operational beyond 18 months from the conditional license issuance.
- Violate any regulations outlined in §A(5) of this code.
- Allow taxes to be in arrears in any jurisdiction.
Conditional License Rescission:
Do:
- Operate within legal and regulatory boundaries, maintaining good standing with the State Department of Assessment and Taxation.
Don’t:
- Have convictions involving moral turpitude
- Fail to reveal material facts in the application or submit an incomplete supplemental license application
- Violate any conditions specified in §B of this regulation
What is the Change of Location Do’s and Don’ts?
Do:
Submit Complete Application:
- Ensure your application for relocation is comprehensive and includes all required details.
Accompany with Fee:
- Submit the necessary fee specified in COMAR 14.17.21 along with your application.
Wait for Approval:
- Refrain from starting cultivation, processing, or dispensing at the new location until the Administration grants approval.
Don’t:
Initiate Operations Without Approval:
- Avoid beginning cannabis-related activities at the new location before receiving official approval from the Administration.
Change Counties Without Permission:
- Note that a dispensary can only relocate within the county initially awarded the license. Seeking approval for county changes is crucial.
As Maryland’s cannabis industry continues to develop, aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs have the chance to mold its future. By grasping the do’s and don’ts of Maryland dispensary licenses, you position yourself for success in this dynamic and lucrative sector.
If you have any questions or require assistance with setting up your dispensary, please feel free to reach out to us.
