Washington Marijuana License
Washington allows adult-use and medical cannabis. The Liquor and Cannabis Board licenses producers, processors and retailers from a fixed pool of licenses, with new retail licenses currently offered mainly through its Social Equity Program.
Overview
Washington voters legalized adult-use cannabis in 2012 (Initiative 502), and retail stores opened in July 2014. The Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) licenses and regulates the industry, and medical cannabis is sold through retailers with a medical endorsement.
The number of retail licenses is limited, and the LCB doesn't run open application rounds for new stores. New retail licenses are being issued through the Social Equity Program, which opens application windows periodically and runs through 2032. Otherwise, most entrepreneurs enter the market by buying an existing licensed business.
License Types
- Producer (Tiers 1–3 by canopy size)
- Processor
- Retailer, with an optional medical endorsement
- Transportation and research licenses
- Social equity retailer, producer and processor licenses
Key Requirements
- Washington residency for owners (6 months) and LCB background checks
- Location at least 1,000 feet from schools and playgrounds (localities can reduce some buffers)
- No person may hold more than five retail licenses
- Local approval: many cities and counties ban or limit cannabis businesses
Fees
- Application fee: $250 (all license types)
- Annual license issuance and renewal fee: $1,781 per location as of July 1, 2026, adjusted for inflation from July 2027
- Social equity applicants may qualify for technical assistance and grants
Application Process
- Check whether a Social Equity Program window is open, or find an existing license to purchase.
- Form your business and secure a location that meets buffer and zoning rules.
- Apply through the state Business Licensing Service and pay the $250 application fee.
- Complete LCB investigation, background checks and final inspection.
- Receive your license and pay the annual fee.
Regulations
- Adults 21+ may possess up to 1 ounce of flower
- Home cultivation isn't allowed for recreational users
- Traceability, packaging and advertising rules apply
Medical Marijuana Card
Who qualifies
- Washington resident with a qualifying condition, such as cancer, PTSD, chronic pain, epilepsy and others
- Authorization from a healthcare practitioner
How to apply
- Get a medical cannabis authorization from a practitioner.
- Visit a medically endorsed retailer to be entered into the database and get a recognition card.
- Registered patients get tax exemptions and higher purchase limits.
Sources
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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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