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License Types
Currently Available

Ohio has legalized cannabis for medical use. The Medical Marijuana Control Program is responsible for overseeing the cannabis licensing process. The following licenses are currently available in Ohio, but the application windows are closed. 

  • Cultivation
  • Processing
  • Testing
  • Dispensaries
What You Need To Apply

In order to apply for a license in Ohio, here are the top items you want to complete to be successful starting your journey into the cannabis space:

  1. Decide what type of business (or businesses) you want to pursue cannabis business licenses for.

    Review the list of license types available for application to determine what might be the best fit for you and your business aspirations.

  2. Assemble Your Team

    The next step is to gather your team of experts. Having financial backing in the form of investors is crucial so that you are able to procure consultation services, a location, and other resources along the way. Don’t make the mistake of getting knee-deep in your plan and then running out of money to see it through. After you’ve made sure your funding is set, assemble your team of people you can trust. Specifically, you want people who have experience in the industry and who are well-informed so that you can highlight your team’s expertise in your application.

  3. Secure a Property

    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.

  4. Draft Your Application

    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. Canna Business Services has years of experience drafting award-winning applications for our clients in competitive states. Set up a meeting with us today to discuss how we can help you with your business.

  5. Read more on our blog about how to take the first steps towards licensure.

History of Cannabis in
Ohio

In June 2016, Governor Kasich agreed to sign House Bill 523 which legalized cannabis for medical use in Ohio. Initially the number of dispensaries licensed was set at 58. In January 2022, they held a lottery to award an additional 73 licenses. Ohio continues to consider legalizing cannabis for adult-use.

On November 7, 2023, Ohio voters approved a ballot measure to legalize marijuana for adult recreational use, making it the 24th state to do so. Medical marijuana has been legal in the state since 2016. Governing every aspect from seed to sale, the industry is a confusing tangle of federal, state, and local regulations. Adhering to all laws is nearly impossible without a depth of specialized knowledge. At Canna Business Services, we are well-versed and the first to hear about change. We offer compliance-focused consultation for startups as well as seasoned businesses.

Starting up a legal medical cannabis operation in Ohio involves strict regulatory requirements for licensing and operations. The laws, rules, and regulations specific to the state present an expensive and complex challenge. Getting any traction can prove overwhelming. Despite the potential return on investment, non-compliance in the cannabis industry can lead to license revocation, major fines, and the end of your dreams. Set yourself up for success with a call to Canna Business Services.

Medical Cannabis Business Services in Ohio

Ohio legalized medical marijuana in 2016, making it the sixth state to do so. Governing every aspect from seed to sale, the industry is a confusing tangle of federal, state, and local regulations. Adhering to all laws is nearly impossible without a depth of specialized knowledge. At Canna Business Services, we are well-versed and the first to hear about change. We offer compliance-focused consultation for startups as well as seasoned businesses.

Ohio Medical Marijuana Business Consultants

Constructed mostly of women, our team of cannabis consultants represents a diversity of backgrounds, including federal procurement, state and city procurement, education, engineering, non-profit and law expertise. We are a member of the Minority Cannabis Business Association and the winner of the ICON Innovation Award 2020. We partner with you to create a uniquely branded operation, integrating future-proof solutions and achieving your goals.