The application period for a 2025 hemp license has closed. The application period for 2026 hemp licenses will open at the beginning of November.
If you are a current license holder and need to add or change locations, submit a Change Request Form. If you need to request an inspection/THC test, please contact the MDA Hemp Program.
The hemp application is electronic and will be available starting November 4th. The link to the application will be posted at the top of our program webpages. Grow and/or processing locations need to be determined prior to applying.
First-time applicants and all authorized representatives need to submit fingerprints and pass a criminal background check. The MDA program staff will send all first-time applicants and authorized representatives a blank fingerprint card and instructions on how to request the background check after the application is completed. Any applicant with a controlled substance-related felony conviction in the previous 10-year period will not be eligible for licensure. A license will not be issued until the applicant and all authorized representatives pass a criminal history background check.
2025 FEES
The MDA is required to collect annual fees for registration of sites and certification of hemp crops through THC testing. All fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable. There is a $50 fee for all license changes made after the initial application period. Such changes include changing the license holder's name, adding a grower or processor category, and adding or changing grow or processing locations. All changes must be made by submitting a Change Request Form.
*PLEASE NOTE: THE MINIMUM COST OF A GROWER LICENSE IS $400 ($150 + $250 FOR ONE LOCATION) AND THE MINIMUM COST OF A PROCESSOR LICENSE IS $500 ($250 + $250 FOR ONE LOCATION). EACH LICENSE CATEGORY MUST HAVE A MINIMUM OF ONE REGISTERED LOCATION.
| Grower License | $150* |
|---|---|
| Processor License | $250* |
| Each Location | $250* |
| Each Sample for THC Testing | $100 |
| Each Inspection Beyond the First One | $250 |
| License Change Fee | $50 |
THC Testing Fees:
Every hemp variety planted is considered a separate lot and must be reported and tested separately. The licensee will be invoiced for each sample taken. The fee of one THC test is $100. If more than one variety is grown, each one will be sampled separately and invoiced after the inspection at $100 per variety. If more than one inspection at a location during the year is required, then the licensee will be invoiced $250 for the additional inspection, plus $100 per THC test beyond the first one.
Important Notice: New License and Permit Surcharge
As part of our ongoing efforts to improve our services, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture is introducing a license and permit surcharge (MINN. STAT. 17.033). This surcharge is an application processing charge that will be added to all licensing and permitting applications and renewals beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The surcharge will be calculated as 5% of the license or permit fee, with a minimum charge of $5.
The surcharge is supporting the modernization of our technology systems, which will provide better online services and more efficient processing of applications. The collected funds will be dedicated to upgrading our electronic systems, making it easier for you to interact with us and access the services you need.
