Hemp was legalized in North Dakota following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which federally recognized hemp with less than 0.3% THC as an agricultural commodity. This allowed states to develop their own regulatory programs. North Dakota established a comprehensive licensing system managed by the North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) to oversee the cultivation and processing of hemp within the state. The NDDA’s Industrial Hemp Program regulates all aspects of hemp cultivation and processing, ensuring compliance with both state and federal regulations.

Types of Licenses and Costs:

• Grower License:
  • License Fee: Based on the number of lots grown.
    • 1 Lot: $100
    • 2 Lots: $200
    • 3 Lots: $300
    • 4 or more Lots: $350
• Processor License:
  • License Fee: $200

Application Process:

To apply for a hemp license in North Dakota, growers and processors must complete the following steps:

• Complete Required Forms:

• • Criminal History Record Check Request (SFN 60688)
  • Hemp License Application (SFN 58476)
  • Hemp Processor License Application (SFN 61613)
• Submit Supporting Documents:
  • Two sets of fingerprints (locations provided by the state).
  • A non-refundable check or money order for $41.25 made out to the North Dakota Department of Agriculture for the background check.
• Mail Completed Forms and Fees to:
  • North Dakota Department of Agriculture

Plant Industries Division

600 E Boulevard Ave, Dept 602

Bismarck, ND 58505-0020

Once the application and fees are submitted, an inspector from the NDDA will contact the applicant to coordinate an inspection.

Restrictions:

• Lot Definition: A lot is defined as a contiguous area in a field, greenhouse, or indoor growing structure containing the same variety or strain of hemp throughout.
• Criminal History: Applicants must pass a criminal history check.
• Compliance: All hemp cultivation and processing must comply with state and federal regulations regarding THC levels and other quality standards.

Importing and Buying Seeds:

• International Seed: Regulations for importing hemp seed into the U.S. have recently changed, allowing seed to be brought into the country without a DEA Import Permit. Other requirements may apply.
• Domestic Seed: Hemp seed can be purchased and moved into North Dakota from any state. However, growers should ensure the seed comes from a reputable source and the variety is known to have THC levels below 0.3%.

Hemp Pilot Program:

The NDDA created the Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program in compliance with federal law, specifically the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), to research the growth, cultivation, and marketing of industrial hemp. The purpose of the pilot program is to understand how industrial hemp fits into North Dakota’s agricultural landscape and its potential economic contributions.

Hemp Information:

Hemp includes varieties of Cannabis sativa grown for agricultural and industrial purposes, such as textiles, rope, paper, building products, food, feed, oil, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biofuels. The NDDA’s program aims to expand knowledge and practical applications of hemp within North Dakota.