California Hemp & Cannabinoids Licensing and Regulation Attorneys

Our California cannabis attorneys at Manzuri Law know the complex federal regulatory framework for hemp and cannabinoid licensing creates much confusion for operators and can be challenging to navigate.

The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 — also known as the 2018 Farm Bill — removed hemp and hemp derivatives containing less than .3% THC from the Controlled Substances Act and granted the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulatory authority over hemp cultivation.

About a year later, the USDA published its Interim Final Rule (IFR), which ushered in a new era of licensing.

Since the IFR went into effect, our accomplished California lawyers have procured over 1,000,000 acres of hemp and cannabis licenses for clients pursuing their business goals in these highly regulated areas.

Full-Service Hemp & Cannabinoid Business Attorneys in California

Our dedicated hemp and cannabinoid lawyers in California understand each industry standard and legal requirement to start, maintain, and grow businesses that are regulated by both state and federal laws.

In California, there are multiple steps to obtaining a hemp license, including obtaining an FBI background check.

All growers or handlers must pass an FBI background check to be licensed to grow or handle, process, transport, or test hemp, and must be completed within 60 days of the application per USDA rules.

Most importantly, Hemp and cannabinoid businesses must locate a property in a city or county where these businesses are permitted. Entrepreneurs and their counsel must determine if the property is in the proper zone for the type of license activity and if not, will need to file a zoning certification letter. 

At Manzuri Law, our experienced hemp and cannabinoid lawyers in California will take charge in filing all of  the necessary documents and manage all correspondence with the proper county, city, and/or stage hemp licensing agencies, including:

• The California Department of Food & Agriculture.
• The California Department of Public Health.
• The proper county’s agriculture commissioner’s office.
• The city and/or county building and planning departments to ensure all required permits are in place.
• Provide the mapping requirements that are typically required for hemp licenses.

In California, both hemp and CBD industries are consistently growing, which means the laws are constantly changing. If you are interested in starting a hemp business, or if you are already operating a hemp or CBD manufacturing or distribution business, our skilled legal advocates can help ensure your company is effectively and compliantly operating as you grow.

At Manzuri Law, Our Skilled Cannabis Attorneys and Specialists Also Focuses On The Following Practice Areas:

• Administrative Hearings & Appeals
• Cannabis Criminal Defense
• Cannabis and Hemp Litigation & Dispute Resolution
• Corporate & Business Law
• Cannabis Consulting and Expert Testimony Services
• Government Relations, Regulations & Policy
• Hemp & Cannabinoids
• Intellectual Property
• License Violation Defense
• Mergers & Acquisitions Transactions
• Psychedelic Law
• Real Estate, Land Use & Zoning Advice
• Regulatory Compliance & Licensing
• Risk Mitigation Advice & Counsel
• Venture Capital
• Apply For a Cannabis License in California
• Who Regulates the Cannabis Industry in California

Partner with Our Experienced Hemp & CBD Business Lawyers in California

Manzuri Law’s attorneys, having supported hemp businesses throughout the country, are uniquely experienced and positioned to help your hemp business implement best practices, navigate the landscape, and thrive.

Our practitioners are actively engaged with regulatory bodies at all levels of government regarding the drafting and implementation of hemp production plans by way of public comment and governmental relations. We have a successful record of advising operators on compliance and licensing for hemp.

Whether you are cultivating hemp or working with one of its derivatives — CBD, CBG, CBN, or others — you can rest assured that Manzuri Law’s attorneys are well-versed in finding creative solutions for the complexities that come with having multiple regulatory bodies, strict testing standards, and conflicting or otherwise absent local, state, and federal laws.

Contact Our Trusted Hemp and CBD Business Lawyers in California for Help Today

With our thorough knowledge of case law, and regulatory and legislative policy changes, our experienced cannabis attorneys protect the businesses our clients have worked so hard to build.

Contact one of our California cannabis law firm specialists today by phone at (310) 912-2960 or online to ensure your operations and complete business interests are protected inside and outside the courtroom.

Frequently Asked Questions for Our California Hemp & Cannabinoids Licensing and Regulation Attorneys

What are the Current Requirements to Manufacture and Sell Industrial Hemp Products in California?

To manufacture and sell industrial hemp products in California, you must:

• Possess a license or registration for your specific commodity.
• Obtain an Industrial Hemp Product Registration for each commodity.
• Comply with California law and federal law including but not limited to California Food and Agriculture (CDFA) law; California Department of Public Health (CDPH) law, such as the Sherman Food, Drug and Cosmetic Law; and the 2018 Farm Bill.

How Long is My California Industrial Hemp Product Registration (IHPR) Valid?

IHPRs are valid for one year from the date of issuance.

Will My Industrial Hemp Facility be Inspected by the California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDPH)?

The California Health and Safety Code grants the CDPH the authority to enter and inspect any establishment engaged in any covered activity, such as manufacturing, packing, or holding foods, drugs, medical devices, or cosmetics. Additionally, AB 45 specifies that CDPH may inspect financial data, sales data, and personnel data.

Can I Make Industrial Hemp Products from My California Home?

No. industrial hemp products must be made at a suitable, commercial location.

Are Inhalable Industrial Hemp Products Legal in California?

Currently, inhalable industrial hemp products may not be sold in California.

Can I Grow Industrial Hemp for Personal Use?

No. Industrial Hemp must be grown by a licensed operator. No “home grows.”