How to Apply for a License to Grow Hemp Seed in Massachusetts

Hemp has a quickly become America’s new cash crop and Massachusetts farmers are going all in as they try to corner their fair share in the growing market. Many farmers claim that integrating hemp into their production strategy has tremendously increased their earnings, sometimes doubling or tripling annual profits. And it’s no wonder. The CBD industry is booming and it’s not expected to slow down any time soon.

But while all this is extremely exciting for Massachusetts agriculture industry, it does require some additional effort among farmers. Growing hemp seed on your Massachusetts farm means you need to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources.

In this article, we’ll discuss why hemp licensure is important and the steps for becoming licensed in Massachusetts.

Why Do You Need a License to Grow Hemp Seed?

Licenses are required in most states to grow hemp because of the sensitive nature of the plant. Hemp is a type of cannabis plant. It’s different than marijuana but shares some of the same properties. If left unregulated, it could reach consumers in a less than desirable state. Licenses help state governments monitor hemp production to ensure that crops and their end products are free of heavy metals, contaminants, and THC exceeding 0.3%. They are also a requirement set in place by the USDA.

Steps for Obtaining a License to Grow Hemp in Massachusetts

Before you begin planting hemp seed on your land in Massachusetts, you will need to apply for a license. The licensing authority in Massachusetts is the Department of Agriculture Resources. Here are the steps for applying:

• Obtain an aerial photograph map of your growing location that includes your site name, GPS coordinates, and site features including clearly marked boundaries.
• Get an FBI criminal background check. All other key participants will also need a background check.
• Go to the mass.gov website and read the section on the industrial hemp program
• Click on the license for applying for a license. You should be directed here.
• Review the reading materials required by the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources. These include the MA Commercial Industrial Hemp Program Policy and the United States Department of Agriculture Interim Final Rule for U.S. Domestic Hemp Production. We also recommend reading the 2018 Farm Bill.
• Download the license forms. If you intend to only grow hemp, you will need to download the Producer forms. If you intend to also process hemp into a finalized product, you will need the Dual Producer/Processor forms.
• Complete the application. You will be required to provide your personal information, information for other key participants, information regarding your growing location, and details on your seed source.
• Include the aerial photograph map with your application.
• Attach a criminal history report that’s current within 60 days of submitting your application.
• Sign the application and mail it to Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Hemp Program, 251 Causeway Street; Suite 500, Boston, MA 02114, Attn: Sarah Grubin along with your $100 non-refundable fee.
• Pay the additional license fee when your application is approved.

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