Delaware Marijuana License

Delaware legalized adult-use cannabis in April 2023 (the Delaware Marijuana Control Act). Adult-use sales started on August 1, 2025 at converted medical dispensaries, with new lottery licensees opening afterward. The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) regulates the market.

Licenses are capped, and roughly half of retail licenses are reserved for social equity applicants, who pay much lower fees. Qualified applicants are selected by random lottery.

• Retail (30 licenses: 15 open, 15 social equity)
• Product manufacturing (including microbusiness)
• Cultivation (tiers by canopy, including microbusiness)
• Testing facility

• Meet OMC minimum qualifications to enter the lottery
• Social equity status for reduced fees
• Financial and criminal background checks after selection
• Local zoning compliance

• Retail, manufacturing, testing: $5,000 application plus $10,000 biennial license (social equity: $1,000 plus $4,000)
• Open cultivation over 2,500 sq ft: $5,000 application plus $5,000–$10,000 license by size
• Microbusiness: reduced fees
• Fees are from OMC rules; confirm current amounts with the OMC

1. Watch the OMC for an application window (announced at least 10 days ahead).
2. Submit your application and fee during the 30-day window.
3. Qualified applicants enter a random lottery.
4. If selected, submit a supplemental application and license fee within 10 days.
5. Pass background checks and inspection.

• Adults 21+ may possess up to 1 ounce
• Home cultivation isn't allowed
• Localities can ban or restrict businesses

• Any condition a practitioner believes cannabis can help (adults 65+ may self-certify)
• Certification from a Delaware practitioner

1. Get certified by a practitioner (unless self-certifying).
2. Apply to the state medical cannabis program.
3. Buy at a medical dispensary.