Marijuana Cultivation and Growing Regulations in Maryland

What Are The Cultivation Regulations For Marijuana in Maryland?

In Maryland, the cultivation of marijuana for personal use is not legally authorized. Possession of up to 10 grams is decriminalized in the state, but cultivation is still a criminal offense. Any cultivation of marijuana in Maryland will result in criminal charges.

How Many Plants Can I Legally Grow For Personal Use in Maryland?

Under current Maryland law, possession and distribution of cannabis plants is illegal and punishable by up to 12 years in prison. Therefore, it is not legal to grow marijuana plants for personal use in Maryland.

Is There A Difference In Cultivation Rules Between Medical And Recreational Marijuana in Maryland?

Yes, there are differences in cultivation rules between medical and recreational marijuana in Maryland. Medical marijuana cultivators must receive an authorization from the state to grow marijuana, and must abide by the regulations and guidelines set forth by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission. Recreational marijuana cultivation is not currently legal in Maryland.

Are There Specific Zoning Requirements For Marijuana Cultivation Sites in Maryland?

Yes. In Maryland, marijuana cultivation sites must be located in areas zoned for agricultural, industrial or research use. Additionally, all cultivation sites must meet the requirements of the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission’s regulations regarding security and operations.

What Permits And Licenses Are Required For Commercial Marijuana Cultivation in Maryland?

In accordance with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, as of February 2020, all individuals and entities interested in cultivating industrial hemp and medical marijuana must obtain a Hemp Processing License or a Cannabis Cultivation License, respectively. These licenses must be renewed annually. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have no prior felony convictions and pass a background check. All applicants must submit an extensive application, along with fees, to the Commission which will consider the application for approval or denial. In addition to these licenses, all growers must also obtain a license from the Maryland Department of Agriculture. This license is valid for one year and requires the submission of additional application material and fees. Finally, applicants must obtain any additional local licenses that may be required.

Are There Limitations On The Size And Scale Of Marijuana Cultivation Operations in Maryland?

Yes, there are limitations on the size and scale of marijuana cultivation operations in Maryland. Cultivation operations are limited to a maximum of two tiers, with a maximum of 22,000 square feet of canopy per tier. Cultivators must also limit their canopy to no more than 5,000 plants per tier. Outdoor cultivation must be conducted within a fully enclosed and locked facility, with canopy limited to 1 acre.

What Environmental Regulations Apply To Marijuana Cultivation, Such As Water Usage And Pesticide Use, in Maryland?

Water usage regulations:

1. Growers must use only water that is legally and properly obtained.

2. Cultivators must use water efficiently and not waste it.

3. Cultivators must use best management practices to conserve water.

Pesticide use regulations:

1. All pesticides used in marijuana cultivation must be registered with the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

2. All pesticides used must be applied in accordance with all label instructions and safety precautions.

3. Applicators must be trained and certified by the Maryland Department of Agriculture prior to using any pesticide in marijuana cultivation.

4. Records must be kept of all pesticide applications at the marijuana facility.

How Are Security And Surveillance Requirements Enforced For Marijuana Cultivation Facilities in Maryland?

Security and surveillance requirements for marijuana cultivation facilities in Maryland are enforced by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission. Under Maryland law, all licensed marijuana cultivation facilities must have at least one 24-hour video surveillance system in place that records activity within the facility, including access to restricted areas. The video surveillance system must also be monitored by a trained security personnel and reviewed by the Commission on a regular basis. Additionally, all cultivation facilities must have a secure perimeter with access restricted to authorized personnel only. To ensure compliance with these regulations, any person or entity licensed to cultivate marijuana in Maryland is subject to periodic inspections by the Commission.

Are There Restrictions On The Use Of Artificial Lighting And Energy Consumption In Indoor Cultivation in Maryland?

Yes, there are restrictions on the use of artificial lighting and energy consumption in indoor cultivation in Maryland. The Maryland Department of the Environment’s regulations on indoor cultivation require facilities to meet LEED certification standards for energy efficiency. Any lighting systems used must meet LEED standards for energy efficiency and must be designed to minimize light pollution. Facilities must also take measures to reduce water usage and conserve energy.

What Are The Rules Regarding Outdoor Marijuana Cultivation, Including Fencing And Odor Control, in Maryland?

Under Maryland law, outdoor marijuana cultivation is allowed for medical marijuana patients and caregivers only. However, the cultivation must be done in such a way that it does not become a nuisance to neighbors or the public. All outdoor marijuana cultivation must be done in a manner that prevents public access, visibility, or odor from the plants. Fencing is recommended as an appropriate way to meet this requirement. All plants must be grown in raised beds, containers, or hydroponic systems at least five feet away from any neighboring property. Any odor emitted from the plants must be mitigated by methods such as carbon filters or other odor-control systems. Additionally, all outdoor marijuana cultivation must comply with local ordinances and state laws regarding pesticide application and water usage.

Do I Need To Register My Cultivation Site With The State Regulatory Agency in Maryland?

Yes, you must register with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission in order to legally cultivate cannabis in the state. The application process and requirements may vary, but typically include proof of identification, proof of residency, and an application fee.

Are There Inspections And Compliance Checks For Marijuana Cultivation Sites in Maryland?

Yes. Maryland requires businesses that cultivate, process, and dispense medical marijuana to be licensed and regulated by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC). The MMCC performs inspections and compliance checks as a part of the licensing process. Additionally, the MMCC also performs audits and unannounced inspections on licensed growers.

Can I Sell My Homegrown Marijuana To Dispensaries Or Other Individuals in Maryland?

No. It is illegal to sell marijuana in Maryland, even if it is grown at home. It is illegal to possess and distribute any amount of marijuana in Maryland. Even if you are licensed to grow and possess small amounts of marijuana for personal use, it is still illegal to sell it.

What Is The Process For Obtaining A License To Cultivate And Sell Marijuana Seeds in Maryland?

The process for obtaining a license to cultivate and sell marijuana seeds in Maryland is as follows:

1. Complete an application. An application must be submitted to the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) indicating the applicant’s intent to cultivate and sell marijuana seeds in the state. The application must include basic information such as the applicant’s name, address, and contact information.

2. Obtain a license. If approved, the applicant will be issued a cultivation and sales license that will permit them to legally cultivate and sell marijuana seeds in Maryland.

3. Comply with state regulations. The MMCC requires licensees to comply with all state laws and regulations related to the cultivation and sale of marijuana seeds in Maryland. This includes following all applicable safety and environmental regulations, keeping accurate records, and paying taxes on any marijuana seed sales.

4. Pay fees. All licensees must pay an initial licensing fee as well as an annual renewal fee to maintain the license. The fees vary depending on the size of the operation and associated risks.

Are There Restrictions On The Use Of Chemicals And Pesticides In Marijuana Cultivation in Maryland?

Yes, there are restrictions on the use of chemicals and pesticides in marijuana cultivation in Maryland. In accordance with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission’s regulations, only products registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may be used for pest control in the cultivation of medical cannabis. All chemicals used must be applied in a manner that is safe and appropriate for the environment and in accordance with all state, local, and federal laws. Additionally, chemicals must not be applied to any plant or product that is intended for human consumption.

How Do Cultivation Regulations Address Environmental Sustainability And Conservation in Maryland?

In Maryland, cultivation regulations are designed to ensure that any cannabis production is done in an environmentally sustainable and responsible way. Cultivation operations must comply with Maryland’s “greenhouse gas emissions reduction plan” as well as state and local environmental and health regulations. Regulations governing cannabis cultivation also require specific measures to ensure water conservation, such as using drip irrigation systems and other efficient watering methods, as well as using organic soil amendment systems instead of chemical fertilizers. Cultivators must also take steps to avoid soil erosion, such as implementing windbreaks or using mulch to stabilize soil. Finally, cultivators are required to properly dispose of any wastewater they produce in accordance with state regulations.

Are There Buffer Zones Or Distance Requirements Between Cultivation Sites And Sensitive Areas Like Schools in Maryland?

Yes, there are buffer zones and distance requirements between cultivation sites and sensitive areas like schools in Maryland. According to state law, medical cannabis cultivation facilities must be at least 1,000 feet away from any public or private school, recreation center, or place of worship. Additionally, the facility must be located in an industrial area that is zoned for commercial use.

What Penalties Or Consequences Can Growers Face For Violations Of Cultivation Regulations in Maryland?

Growers in Maryland who violate the state’s cannabis cultivation regulations may face a range of civil and criminal penalties. These may include revocation or suspension of their business license, a fine of up to $10,000, and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years. Depending on the severity of the violation, state and local law enforcement may also charge the individual with criminal offenses associated with illegal cultivation or trafficking.

Do Cultivation Regulations Include Provisions For Waste Disposal And Recycling in Maryland?

Yes, the Maryland Department of Agriculture has adopted Cultivation Regulations that include provisions for waste disposal and recycling. The regulations require that a licensee submit a plan for waste disposal and recycling with their application, and that the plan must include detailed information about the methods and frequency of waste disposal and recycling, as well as the methods and frequency of monitoring and reporting. The regulations also require that marijuana waste be disposed of in accordance with all applicable state and local regulations.

Where Can I Find Official Resources And Guidance On Marijuana Cultivation Regulations in Maryland?

The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission publishes official regulations for marijuana cultivation in the state. This document outlines the application process, licensing fees, and other requirements for marijuana cultivation in the state. Additionally, the Maryland Department of Health has a detailed list of laws and regulations regarding medical cannabis production available on their website.