Opening a Marijuana Dispensary in California? Here Are Some Tips For You!
California became the first state to legalize medical marijuana way back in 1996. Now in 2019, as long as you’re 21 years old and above, you can purchase marijuana in California, whether it’s for medicinal or recreational purposes. This is probably why more and more people are interested to enter the business of starting a Marijuana Dispensary in California.
In fact, over 10,000 cannabis operators, which include cultivators, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and even testing labs, microbusinesses, and event organizers are licensed to operate. If you’re looking into owning your own cannabis business, then you should start by doing some research. This article will tell you more about the marijuana dispensary business in California, and everything that you need to know about the industry.
Documents Needed For Opening A Marijuana Dispensary
If you’re planning to open a dispensary for the purpose of retailing products, then you will need to apply for a Cannabis Retail License. Here are the most important documents that you will need upon your application:
- Business/Operations Plan
- Dispensary Security Plan
- Financial Plan
- Inventory Control Plan
- Patient Education Plan
- Patient Recordkeeping Plan
- Staffing Plan
Two Types of Retailer Licenses
In California, there are two types of retailer licenses – Type 9 and Type 10. Here are the differences between these two:
- Type 9. This is a non-storefront retailer. With this type of license, you would be able to sell and deliver cannabis products to customers without any hassle. This business is also licensed to have a facility but should not be open to the public.
- Type 10, on the other hand, is a business that sells cannabis to customers at its physical store or by delivery. This type of business has a licensed facility where commercial cannabis activities happen.
Additional Requirements For Application
When applying for a retailer license, you should also do this within your local city as well as the state of California. Remember that the requirements may differ for each city. You will also have to give a $5,000 bond that is payable to the state of California. Other than that, your facility should be situated at least 600 feet away from schools. When it comes to selling and delivering cannabis products, this can only be done from 6 in the morning until 10 at night PST.
Potential Fees to Take Care Of Upon Application
While getting your local and state cannabis licenses, do not be surprised by the additional costs that you have to take care of. This may include the fees for state cannabis license, state cannabis annual fee which will depend on your income, as well as local approval fees that will also depend on your project. In addition to that, you might also need to pay environmental permits and consultation fees depending on the size of your project and its quantity.
All about the Security of Your Business
Businesses involving cannabis has always been controversial. Some people even think that this is a moneymaking type of business. This is why when you’re planning to start this kind of business, make sure that you have heightened security. Trusting anybody, especially when it involves money, is not a wise move. Restrict the access only to yourself and a few trusted employees. You should also manage your security system, if possible, even if you’re away. Talk to companies who can offer you high-tech access control and security options to know what’s best for your establishment.
Marijuana Dispensary – Is It For You?
The procedure of opening a marijuana dispensary in California can be a difficult, confusing, and even a time-consuming process. There will be much paperwork involved, and you need to prepare a good sum of money not only for your capital but also for the fees involved in the process. Many are scared of starting this kind of business, but because it’s a booming industry, there are others who are willing to take the risk.
Yes, this can be a risky move, especially if you’re new to this industry, but once you get the hang of it and once you can connect with experienced entrepreneurs and learn how to make it a success, it will feel like a walk in the park. This is a continuously growing business, which is why you have to open your heart and mind to change. Never get tired of learning because this is how you can make this business a successful one.
