Online applications are now open for anyone wishing to grow or process hemp in Minnesota in 2022. A license from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is required for individuals and businesses.
Applications must be submitted by April 30, 2022, with the license being for the 2022 calendar year. The application can be found on the MDA website. Along with the online form, first-time applicants need to submit fingerprints and pass a criminal background check.
There are several changes to the 2022 program. They include:
- The tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) testing fee per grower sample has been reduced from $125 to $100 each.
- Previously, growers were not invoiced for the cost of the first sample; however, fees now will be charged for each sample collected.
- The MDA will begin inspecting processor locations. This was not done in the past.
- The processor license fee remains at $250, but each processing location will cost $250. Therefore, the minimum cost of a processing license will be $500.
While the deadline to apply or renew is April 30, 2022, those actively growing hemp plants indoors past December 31, 2021, must renew their license before expiration at the end of the year.
If you have any questions, you can send an e-mail to hemp.mda@state.mn.us or call 651-201-6600.