By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has officially opened the application period for its 2026 Industrial Hemp Program. Anyone planning to grow or process industrial hemp in the state next year must obtain a license from the department.
Applicants—whether individuals or businesses—can complete the process online through the MDA website. First-time applicants and authorized representatives must also submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check. All applications must be submitted by April 30, 2026, and licenses will be valid for the 2026 calendar year.
A hemp license allows only for the growing and processing of industrial hemp. It does not authorize the cultivation or sale of adult-use or medical cannabis. Additionally, the license does not cover the extraction, manufacturing, marketing, or sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Those seeking information on cannabis or cannabinoid regulations should visit the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) website.
Starting in 2026, the extraction of cannabinoids from hemp will fall under OCM’s jurisdiction, requiring a separate license. The MDA has also announced updated fees: the base cost for a hemp license is now $400, with an additional $250 per location. The $250 processor fee has been removed, but a 5% license surcharge will continue to fund technology improvements for faster online services.
All authorized representatives must pass a background check before licenses are issued. Each hemp lot grown will require pre-harvest THC testing, with a $100 fee per regulatory sample.
While applications close on April 30, 2026, those growing hemp indoors beyond December 31, 2025, must renew their licenses before expiration.
For questions or assistance, contact the MDA Industrial Hemp Program at hemp.mda@state.mn.us or call 651-201-6600.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-jessicahyde
Categories: Minnesota, General, Government & Policy