Starting a legal cannabis business in California takes time, effort, organization and planning. To help, we created resources to help you apply for a license and technical guides for the licensing systems.
The documents on this page were created prior to the creation of the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC). Some of them still have logos or contact information for the three former state cannabis programs. We intend to update them with DCC information. You can still use them as resources until we do.
Resources for all applicants
Guidance documents
Required forms
Form 8113: Commercial Cannabis Licensee Bond
An application for an annual cannabis license must include proof of a surety bond of at least $5,000 payable to the State of California for each licensed premises.
Form 9101: Commercial Cannabis Owner Submittal Form
DCC requires each owner identified in a commercial cannabis license application to provide ownership information. The Department will use the information provided to determine the owner’s qualification for licensure.
Optional forms
These forms may help you submit required information.
Form 19: Standard Operating Procedures
This form must be prepared by applicants for licensure and maintained post licensure
Form 9205: Labor Peace Agreement Notarized Statement
An applicant for a commercial cannabis business that has not already entered into a labor peace agreement may use this form to complete the notarized statement.
Form 9206: Landowner Approval Consent
This form can be used to demonstrate that the owner of the property where cannabis activity will occur consents to such activity.
Request for Live Scan Service
Forms can be requested by sending an email to CORI@cannabis.ca.gov
Using the online licensing systems
Cultivation Licensing System: How to complete the online application
How to complete the CLEaR online application
Guidance for existing CLEaR users
Additional resources by license type
Cultivation
Converting to a large or medium cultivation license
Distributor and retailer licenses
Testing laboratory licenses
Form 22: Sample preparation SOPs
Form 23: Test Methods – Standard Operating Procedures
Application FAQs
How does DCC review license applications?
The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) reviews license applications in the order we receive them. The application review process takes time. The more complete your information, the faster the review process will be.
During the review process, DCC staff will:
- Check that your application is complete
- Contact the city or county where your business is located to confirm that you meet local requirements
- Review your business owners’ criminal history, if any
- Review the information you submitted to make sure your business meets the requirements
When will DCC contact me about my application?
We will contact you if your application is incomplete. If we contact you:
- Stay in contact with us as you resolve the issue
- Provide what’s needed as soon as possible to reduce delays in issuing your license
Resources for licensees
Once you are licensed, refer to the following pages to access information and resources.
