Cultivation and micro-cultivation permit applicants are about to take a big step forward. In a newsletter released Tuesday, the Office of Cannabis Regulations officially announced that it will begin accepting applications for cultivation licenses and micro-cultivation permits starting March 31.
This marks a significant milestone in advancing the application initiative. Since Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. approved Act 8680 last year. Since then, the Office of Cannabis Regulations has been working to determine the most effective process for releasing applications.
Applicants who obtain a cultivating license must follow specific guidelines. Those with micro-cultivation permits can grow up to 50 flowering plants, while those with full cultivation licenses can grow up to 1,000. Cultivation is permitted only on properties zoned A-1, A-2, R-1, or R-2.
More information, including specific instructions and details on upcoming information sessions, will follow for those with questions. In the meantime, OCR encourages interested applicants to begin preparing their documents and ensuring they meet all requirements. Applicants can also visit the OCR website or contact the office at 340-714-9755 or info.ocr@ocr.vi.gov for further details.
Earlier this month, during a regularly scheduled meeting of the Cannabis Advisory Board, Joanne Moorehead, executive director of the Office of Cannabis Regulation, first mentioned the March 31 start date.
“When we do open the applications, it will require some public Q&A meetings so that they are clear on when to submit and how to submit. I don’t think that it will be as easy as a one-page type of thing where people go online, fill it out, and return it,” Moorehead said, anticipating that varying levels of tech-savviness among applicants may create challenges.
She further clarified that the process is merit-based rather than on a first-come, first-served basis. Moorehead also noted that cultivation applications will likely open before Requests for Proposals for lab testing facilities. By law, cultivation applications must remain open for a minimum of 60 days.
Medical patients, practitioners, caregivers, and sacramental organizations and users are encouraged to register now by visiting the OCR website.
