Law & Legal

Can Anyone Obtain A Growing License In Canada?

February 2, 2021 /

Since the legalization of cannabis in 2018, more and more Canadians are seeking to enter the cannabis industry.

The main reason for that is that the Canadian cannabis industry is growing at a steady pace and is expected to be highly profitable in the long term. However, before you can start growing your own cannabis, there are certain requirements that need to be met. 

And one of the most important ones is obtaining a cannabis growing license. Such licenses are not available to everyone, and there are other conditions to be fulfilled before you can get a license.  

And this guide will help you know what these requirements are, so make sure to read until the end!

grow license

Who Can Apply For A Cannabis Growing License In Canada?

1. Cultivators

Those planning to cultivate cannabis for commercial purposes need to apply for a grow license in Canada.

2. Producers

Applying for a license is also necessary if you intend to produce cannabis products within Canada. 

3. Packagers

Canadians engaged in the business of packaging cannabis products require a license for the same. 

Who Does Not Require A License? 

A person engaged in the cultivation of cannabis solely for their own personal use in accordance with the Cannabis Act does not require a license. Similarly, those intending to produce cannabis for medical purposes or who have been authorized to produce cannabis for the medical purposes of another can do so without a license. 

Finally, industrial hemp growers do not require a license to produce industrial hemp. However, those with a Health Canada license do not enjoy this exemption and must apply for a CRA license for growing cannabis for medical and non-medical purposes. 

License Validity and Renewal

The cannabis growing license is valid for two years and will not be renewed automatically. For that, you need to apply for a license renewal before 30 days from the current license expiration date. Also, it is important to meet the requirements of the license throughout the period for which the license is valid. 

Eligibility Conditions

These conditions should be met before you can apply for a cannabis license in Canada:

  • The applicant should not be subject to the receivership of their debts

  • No act of fraud must have been committed by the applicant in the past five years

  • The applicant should be at least 18 years of age 

  • They should have a valid business address in Canada

  • The applicant should provide acceptable security as required

  • A list of all premises engaged in cannabis production should be provided

  • The applicant should have sufficient resources to conduct the business 

  • The applicant should have a valid license from Health Canada

Conclusion

We’ve mentioned some of the conditions that make a person eligible for a license for growing cannabis. However, there are other formalities that need to be completed as well, and you will be informed of these after submitting the application.

In case you wish to learn more about the process, contact the licensing office today and get your doubts cleared up.