Decide what type of cannabis business license you would like to pursue.
Review the list of cannabis business license types available in your state, to determine what might be the best fit for you and your business goals.
Hawaii CANNABIS BUSINESS LICENSE
Interested in starting a cannabis business in Hawaii? The state offers opportunities for medical cannabis dispensary licenses and hemp licenses, regulated by the Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation (OMCCR) and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA). Currently, no new medical cannabis dispensary applications are being accepted, but hemp licenses are available year-round. Learn the key steps, requirements, and opportunities below.
Ready to Start Your Cannabis Business in Hawaii?
Hawaii’s medical cannabis program, established under HRS Chapter 329D, allows licensed dispensaries to grow, process, and sell medical marijuana to registered patients. The last application period was in 2016, with no new round announced for 2025. Here’s how the process worked and what to expect in potential future rounds:
Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on Hawaii cannabis licensing opportunities and industry news.
The OMCCR has issued 25 dispensary licenses, with the latest awarded in April 2016. House Bill 302 (2025) may introduce new cultivation licenses, pending House approval. Monitor the OMCCR website for updates.
While medical cannabis applications are closed, proposed adult-use cannabis legalization (e.g., SB 2455, HB 1907) could open new licensing opportunities for retail and cultivation. Stay informed about the 2025 legislative session for updates on House Bill 302, which may expand cultivation licenses.
Navigating Hawaii’s cannabis licensing process can be complex. Stay ahead by preparing now and partnering with experts to ensure compliance and success. Contact Us for Expert Guidance
These are the top items to prepare when you apply for a cannabis business license application:
Review the list of cannabis business license types available in your state, to determine what might be the best fit for you and your business goals.
Different states require certain team structures on your state license application. Regardless of the state requirements, there are a number of considerations to structuring your team, including state residency, ownership restrictions, past cannabis experience, and more.
Prior to obtaining a license you will need to secure property that is zoned correctly and able to support the needs of a cannabis business. This can, at times, be the most challenging part of the process.
Our team has worked with countless municipalities to assist our clients in obtaining compliant properties in correctly zoned areas, so we know how challenging this can be. You may be required to present to your mayor, city council, zoning board, and variance board. If you do not secure municipal cannabis business license approval, you will not be able to win a state cannabis business license.
Application requirements vary between Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and narrative forms surrounding the expectations you have for your business. Either way, these need to be compliant with all state, local, and federal regulations. Ensuring that you are compliant is one of the most important steps in the application process. Beyond the application, once operational, your SOPs will be the heartbeat of your organization and your ability to keep your license.
Canna Business Services has years of experience drafting award-winning applications and building compliant cannabis businesses. Please set up a meeting with us today to pursue your cannabis dreams!
Compliance. Growth. Success.
Get licensing updates, compliance alerts, regulatory changes, and industry news delivered directly to your inbox.