Tampa Cannabis Business Lawyers 

Florida Cannabis Business Laws 

As is the case for many U.S. states, Florida’s cannabis laws are continually evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs interested in the cannabis industry. While recreational marijuana use is still illegal in the state of Florida, the state does permit the use of medical marijuana under specific conditions.

Florida Cannabis Entities, Licensing, & Permitting

Our experienced marijuana attorneys at MSD Business have over 150 years of collective experience assisting Floridians with cannabis licensing, permitting, zoning, and more to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. We’ve successfully represented clients throughout Florida in various legal matters related to cannabis use and sales.

Who Can Have a Marijuana Business in Florida?

To lawfully operate a cannabis business in Florida, certain criteria must be fulfilled, including: 

• Residency: Applicants must be Florida residents and provide proof of residency.
• Age: Individuals involved in the cannabis business must be at least 21 years old.
• Background checks: All individuals associated with the business will undergo thorough background checks.
• Financial stability: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and provide evidence of sufficient funds to support the business.
• Compliance with state and federal regulations: It’s crucial to comply with all applicable regulations set forth by the state of Florida if you wish to operate a cannabis business.

Opening a Medicinal Marijuana Business in Florida

Opening a medicinal marijuana business in Florida requires careful consideration of state laws and regulations. Currently, only individuals or entities that have been granted a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) license by the Florida Department of Health (DOH) are eligible to operate as a medicinal marijuana business.

Applying for an MMTC License

To open a medicinal marijuana business in Florida, you must apply for an MMTC license through the Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). The application process involves submitting detailed information about your business plan, security measures, cultivation, manufacturing, processing, transportation, retailing, and compliance procedures. 

Marijuana Zoning Laws in Florida

Florida has strict zoning laws for marijuana establishments. These laws dictate where cannabis businesses can be located and often involve specific distance requirements from schools, parks, and other sensitive areas. Understanding and complying with these zoning regulations is crucial to ensure your business operates within the legal boundaries. 

Consulting with a trusted cannabis business lawyer is critical, as they can guide your steps carefully to ensure your business complies with Florida’s complex zoning laws. 

Medical Marijuana Business Licensing

There are various types of cannabis licenses available in Florida, including: 

• Medical marijuana treatment center (MMTC) license: This type of cannabis license is for businesses that cultivate, process, and dispense medical marijuana to qualified patients. MMTC licenses in Florida are vertically integrated, meaning they allow businesses to handle all aspects of the cannabis supply chain, including cultivation, processing, and dispensing.
• Hemp cultivation license – This cannabis license is intended for individuals and businesses looking to cultivate hemp for commercial purposes. Applicants must comply with the regulations set forth by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regarding hemp cultivation.
• Dispensary license – This type is reserved for entities that exclusively operate medical marijuana dispensaries, providing patients with access to medical marijuana products. Dispensaries must comply with specific regulations and guidelines related to product safety, patient consultation, and record-keeping.
• Transportation license – This type of license is reserved for businesses engaged in transporting medical marijuana products between licensed facilities. Transporters must comply with strict security protocols and all applicable state regulations.

When to Hire a Tampa Cannabis Law Attorney

A trusted marijuana business lawyer can be invaluable to individuals and business owners involved in Florida’s cannabis industry. Our knowledgeable attorneys have successfully represented Floridians in a variety of marijuana-related legal disputes and can assist clients with various tasks, including: 

• Licensing assistance: An attorney can guide you through the entire licensing process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and increasing your chances of success.
• Compliance and regulatory matters: A lawyer can help navigate the complex web of regulations, ensuring your business remains compliant with all state and local laws.
• Contract review and drafting: From lease agreements to vendor contracts, an attorney can review and draft legally sound documents to protect your interests.
• Intellectual property protection: Protecting your unique brand and trademarks is crucial, and an attorney can assist with registering and enforcing intellectual property rights.
• Dispute resolution: In the event of any legal disputes or challenges, a qualified attorney can provide expert guidance and representation to safeguard your business's best interests.

Knowledgeable Cannabis Lawyers in Tampa

At MSD Business, our trusted attorneys have strong backgrounds in integral legal areas. Although our primary focus area is Florida sales tax controversy, our legal knowledge extends to various other areas, offering our clients a formidable edge in the courtroom. When it comes to protecting your hard-earned assets in Florida, turn to a law firm with extensive experience in accounting, business, cannabis laws, and more for the comprehensive and personalized legal solutions you deserve. 

Our Tampa cannabis lawyers can help ensure your business operates lawfully. Contact us online to discuss your case with an experienced marijuana attorney.