Cannabis License Guides by State
Dispensary license requirements, application windows, ownership rules and taxes for the nine states we serve, each dated and sourced. Last reviewed October 25, 2026.
Where we work
Nine states, from Massachusetts to Virginia
New York and Massachusetts are our home markets, where we have won licenses and run stores. We also work across New Jersey, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Connecticut and Rhode Island, and we track Pennsylvania for clients preparing for legalization.
- Home market
- Window open or opening soon
- Active market
- Watching legalization
At a glance
Compare the states
The headline facts for each state as of October 25, 2026. Open a guide for the full rules and sources.
| State | Regulator | Market | Licensing now | Retail tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Office of Cannabis Management and Cannabis Control Board | Adult-use sales since December 2022; 683 dispensaries open (July 2026) | No general retail window open; OCM issues licenses on a rolling basis from the 2023 pool | 13% (9% state, 4% local) |
| Massachusetts | Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) | Adult-use since 2018; about 400 dispensaries | Rolling applications, no statewide cap on licenses | Up to 20% (10.75% excise, 6.25% sales, up to 3% local) |
| New Jersey | Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) | Adult-use sales since April 21, 2022 | Rolling applications, no statewide cap on licenses | 6.625% sales tax plus up to 2% local |
| Virginia | Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) | Retail sales planned from July 1, 2027 | Final regulations expected December 2026; first applications by February 1, 2027 | About 12.3% to 16.5% combined |
| Delaware | Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) | Adult-use sales since August 1, 2025 | No retail window confirmed open; watch OMC for the next round | 15% |
| Maryland | Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) | Adult-use sales since July 1, 2023 | No new round announced; first-round conditional licensees racing to open | 12% |
| Connecticut | Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) and Social Equity Council | Adult-use sales since January 10, 2023 | No retailer lottery open; equity joint ventures remain a path | 6.35% sales, 3% municipal, plus a THC-based tax |
| Rhode Island | Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) | Adult-use sales since December 1, 2022 | Retail application window open; deadline November 23, 2026 | 20% (10% cannabis, 7% sales, 3% local) |
| Pennsylvania | Department of Health, Office of Medical Marijuana | Medical only | No adult-use licenses; legalization has not passed | To be set by any future law |
Coming up
Dates to watch
| Date | State | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| November 1, 2026 | Connecticut | Ban on agreements that shift operational control away from social equity owners takes effect |
| November 3, 2026 | Massachusetts | Question 8 vote on repealing adult-use retail sales |
| November 5, 2026 | New York | Nursery license applications open, capped at 50 |
| November 23, 2026 | Rhode Island | Retail license application deadline |
| December 2026 | Virginia | Final regulations expected |
| By February 1, 2027 | Virginia | First applications open |
| July 1, 2027 | Virginia | Retail sales begin |
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Which states can I apply in right now?
As of October 2026, New Jersey and Massachusetts accept retail applications on a rolling basis, and Rhode Island's retail window closes November 23, 2026. Virginia's first applications open by February 1, 2027. New York, Connecticut, Maryland and Delaware have no general retail window open.
How often are these guides updated?
We review every state guide monthly and whenever a regulator changes the rules. Each guide shows its last updated date and the sources it relies on.
Do you work outside these nine states?
Our deepest work is in these nine states. If you are considering another state, ask us and we will tell you plainly whether we are the right fit.
Are these guides legal advice?
No. They are general information from operators. Confirm current rules with the regulator and your attorney before acting.
Tell us where you are. We will tell you what comes next.
Whether you are applying, licensed but not open, or already operating, a 30-minute call will give you a clear next step for your license.