Vermont has legalized both the cannabis medical and adult-use industries. Vermont is beginning to accept applications for adult-use licenses on the following timeline. This timeline is also available on the State of Vermont Cannabis Control Board Website.
- April 1, 2022: License applications for integrated licensees, small cultivators, and testing laboratories can be accepted.
- May 1, 2022: Licenses for integrated licensees, small cultivators, and testing laboratories can begin to be issued.
- License applications for all cultivators can also be accepted.
- June 1, 2022: Licenses for all cultivators can begin to be issued.
- July 1, 2022: License applications for product manufacturers and wholesalers can be accepted.
- August 1, 2022: Licenses for product manufacturers and wholesalers can begin to be issued.
- September 1, 2022: License applications for retailers can be accepted.
- October 1, 2022: Licenses for retailers can begin to be issued.
In order to apply for a license in Vermont, here are the top items you want to complete to be successful starting your journey into the cannabis space:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Read more on our blog about how to take the first steps towards licensure.
Vermont legalized cannabis for medical use in 2004. And expanded the offerings of the program through various laws every few years. In 2018, Vermont decriminalized cannabis. In 2020, without the signature of Governor Scott, bill S.54 became law. S.54 allows for the regulation and sale of cannabis for adult use. Sales of adult-use cannabis in Vermont are expected to begin in the fall of 2022.
Final proposed rules for licensing in Vermont have been issued by the Cannabis Control Board.
