How to Get a 99 Plants Grower License: Requirements and Benefits

Understanding the 99 Plants Grower License

A 99 plants grower license is a special permit that allows individuals or businesses to cultivate up to 99 cannabis plants for medical or commercial purposes. This license is often sought by cultivators looking to grow more than the standard six to twelve plants allowed for personal use under state laws. While federal regulations still classify cannabis as a controlled substance, many states with medical cannabis programs offer licensing options for larger-scale cultivation.

Legal Framework and Eligibility

Federal vs. State Laws

The 99 plants grower license does not exist at the federal level, as cannabis remains illegal under federal law. However, many states, including California, Colorado, and Michigan, offer special cultivation permits under their medical cannabis programs. These permits allow growers to cultivate a higher plant count for patients with medical recommendations or for licensed cannabis businesses.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for a 99 plants grower license, applicants must meet specific state and local requirements. General eligibility criteria include:

• Being at least 21 years old
• Residency in the state where cultivation will take place
• A medical marijuana recommendation from a licensed physician (in medical states)
• Compliance with local zoning and land use laws
• No prior convictions for serious drug-related offenses

Cost of a 99 Plants Grower License

Application Fees

The application cost varies by state and licensing tier. In states like California and Michigan, application fees range from $500 to $5,000, depending on cultivation size.

Annual Licensing Fees

Once approved, growers must pay an annual licensing fee, which varies based on plant count, canopy size, and license type. Estimated fees include:

• Small-scale cultivators: $1,000 – $5,000 per year
• Medium cultivators: $5,000 – $15,000 per year
• Large-scale operations: $15,000+ per year

Additional Costs

• Property Lease or Purchase: Land costs vary, with larger cultivation areas requiring substantial investment.
• Security Compliance: Installation of cameras, fencing, and security systems can cost $10,000 – $50,000.
• Water and Electricity Costs: High-energy lighting and irrigation systems can add $5,000 – $30,000 per year.
• Legal and Consulting Fees: Hiring professionals to navigate compliance and licensing may cost $3,000 – $10,000.

Application Process for a 99 Plants Grower License

Business Formation and Registration

Applicants must establish a legal business entity such as an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship. Registering with the Secretary of State and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required for tax purposes.

Securing Local Approval

Each state and county has its own rules regarding cannabis cultivation. Before applying, growers must:

• Obtain zoning approval for the cultivation site
• Secure a local business permit if required
• Comply with environmental and safety regulations

Environmental and Compliance Requirements

Cannabis cultivation requires compliance with state environmental laws to protect natural resources. This includes:

• Water usage permits
• Waste management plans
• Compliance with the Clean Water Act
• Sustainable cultivation practices to limit environmental impact

Security and Track-and-Trace Compliance

Growers must implement strict security measures, including:

• Surveillance cameras covering all access points
• Access control systems to prevent unauthorized entry
• Tracking of all cannabis plants through a state-approved Track-and-Trace system

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Applicants must undergo Live Scan fingerprinting and pass a criminal background check. Certain felony convictions may result in application denial.

Application Submission and Review

After gathering all necessary documents, applicants must submit their forms to the state licensing authority. The review process may take several weeks to months, depending on demand and local regulations.

Final Approval and License Issuance

Once approved, applicants receive a provisional license while awaiting final approval. After paying the annual fee, the full 99 plants grower license is issued.

Benefits of a 99 Plants Grower License

Higher Cultivation Limits

A 99 plants grower license allows cultivators to grow significantly more cannabis than personal-use limits. This enables:

• Medical cannabis patients to produce their own supply
• Commercial growers to expand operations
• Caregivers to grow for multiple patients legally

Legal Protection

Operating under a state-issued license reduces the risk of legal penalties. Licensed growers can:

• Avoid fines, plant seizures, and criminal charges
• Sell legally to licensed dispensaries
• Transport cannabis without legal repercussions

Business Growth Opportunities

Licensed growers can enter state-regulated cannabis markets, allowing for:

• Wholesale distribution to dispensaries and manufacturers
• Product branding and direct sales
• Expansion into legal hemp and CBD markets

Increased Revenue Potential

A 99 plants grower license allows cultivators to scale operations, leading to:

• Higher yields per harvest
• Increased sales to medical patients or dispensaries
• Potential for organic, premium, or craft cannabis branding

Ability to Apply for Future Licensing

Many states transition growers from medical cultivation to full commercial licensing. Holding a 99 plants license can be a stepping stone to:

• Microbusiness licenses
• State recreational licenses
• Multi-acre commercial grow operations

Challenges and Considerations

Strict Regulatory Compliance

Cannabis regulations are constantly evolving, requiring growers to:

• Stay updated on state and federal laws
• Maintain detailed records of plant growth and sales
• Pass random compliance inspections

High Operating Costs

Running a licensed cultivation business involves substantial investment in:

• Facility upgrades
• Security measures
• Ongoing legal fees

Federal Legal Risks

Since cannabis is still illegal federally, growers face challenges such as:

• Banking restrictions (many banks won’t work with cannabis businesses)
• Limited interstate commerce options
• Potential federal enforcement actions in non-cannabis-friendly states

Market Competition

As cannabis legalization expands, more growers enter the market, leading to:

• Lower prices for wholesale cannabis
• Increased need for branding and quality differentiation

Final Thoughts

A 99 plants grower license offers cultivators the opportunity to legally grow a significant amount of cannabis for medical or business purposes. While the licensing process involves fees, regulatory compliance, and security measures, the benefits outweigh the challenges. By obtaining a legal license, growers gain market access, legal protection, and business growth opportunities in the ever-expanding cannabis industry.