Connecticut Marijuana License
Connecticut allows adult-use and medical cannabis. The Department of Consumer Protection licenses retailers, cultivators, manufacturers, delivery services and more, splitting most licenses between general lotteries and social equity applicants.
Overview
Connecticut legalized adult-use cannabis in 2021, and retail sales began in January 2023. The Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) regulates cannabis businesses, with the Social Equity Council reviewing equity applicants.
For most license types, half of licenses are awarded through a general lottery and half go to social equity applicants, defined by income and residency in areas disproportionately affected by past cannabis enforcement. Winners receive a provisional license, then a final license after they're ready to operate.
License Types
- Retailer and Hybrid Retailer (adult-use and medical)
- Cultivator and Micro-Cultivator
- Product Manufacturer, Food and Beverage Manufacturer, Product Packager
- Delivery Service and Transporter
Key Requirements
- Connecticut business entity with background checks
- Social equity applicants must meet income and residency criteria
- Local zoning approval (municipalities can prohibit or restrict businesses)
- Security, inventory and labor peace requirements
Fees
- Lottery application: $250
- Provisional license: $1,000
- Final license: $5,000
- Social equity applicants: fees reduced by 50%
- Cultivator licenses carry higher fees; confirm with the DCP
Application Process
- Watch the DCP for a lottery or application window.
- Submit a lottery application (or social equity application) with the fee.
- If selected, complete the full application and background checks.
- Receive a provisional license and complete buildout.
- Pass inspection and receive the final license.
Regulations
- Adults 21+ may possess up to 1.5 ounces on their person and 5 ounces at home, and grow up to 6 plants
- Municipalities can opt out of cannabis businesses
- Packaging, advertising and THC potency limits apply
Medical Marijuana Card
Who qualifies
- Connecticut resident with a qualifying condition, such as cancer, glaucoma, PTSD, chronic pain, MS, Crohn's disease and others on the DCP list
- Certification from a registered physician or APRN
How to apply
- Get certified by a registered physician or APRN.
- Complete your registration with the DCP.
- Buy at any licensed dispensary or hybrid retailer.
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MarijuanaLicense.com is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with any state agency. This page is for general information only and is not legal advice. Fees, rules and application windows change; confirm with the official regulator before applying.
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