How to Open a Marijuana Dispensary in Michigan

Michigan's cannabis laws will likely change as Michigan's cannabis industry grows. Small business owners and entrepreneurs should know the current laws before drafting a cannabis business plan.

Note: The state of Michigan uses a different spelling to describe cannabis. Michigan laws and regulations may use the term “marihuana" instead of the more common word “marijuana." This spelling comes from the spelling in the federal Controlled Substance Act, which used the spelling from the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937. It is an outdated spelling but cannot be changed without an act of Congress. Michigan law also refers to dispensaries as “provisioning centers."

What To Expect During the Application Process

First, there is a prequalification phase. Everyone involved in the marijuana industry will have a background check during this phase. You will enter the license qualification phase once your application passes through the prequalification phase.

The cannabis license qualification phase requires more specific information. The following sections give an overview of the specific elements to consider before opening a recreational or medical marijuana dispensary.

Michigan Marijuana Facility Licenses

A Michigan dispensary can sell both recreational and medicinal marijuana. You can apply for a Medical Marihuana Facilities License through the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA). CRA is a part of Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This license covers cannabis industry jobs ranging from growers and processors to medical marijuana facilities, microbusinesses, and dispensaries.

Consider Your Location Before Starting Your Dispensary

The first thing to consider before opening a Michigan dispensary is the location. You need to find the right building or lot to build on and get permission and licenses from your municipality. Your facility must be at least 1,000 feet away from liquor stores, other dispensaries, and drug-free zones such as schools or daycares. Check the locations of existing Michigan cannabis dispensaries and businesses to narrow down acceptable locations.

In 2019, the Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA) started a Social Equity Program to promote adult use of marijuana from local dispensaries. This unique initiative aims to support communities previously affected by cannabis laws pre-legalization. As a result, these program locations have reduced dispensary license fees and renewal fees.

Business Models for Your Dispensary

The cannabis company model you choose and the people you partner with can all impact your license approval. Every person involved in your cannabis company will have to submit to a background check throughout the process.

There are many unique elements to consider before opening your cannabis business. During the licensing process, you must submit a site plan. The plan covers everything from the building layout to security and trash management. You will also need to lobby and advocate for your license approval throughout the licensing process.

Staying Compliant at Your Michigan Dispensary

The minimum age for recreational marijuana use is 21 years old. Medical marijuana license holders can apply for a recreational license when they are 21 years old. Ensuring that buyers are 21 years of age or older is essential during all cannabis product sales. If your dispensary sells cannabis to someone underage, you could lose your license and face legal consequences.

The table below reviews the Michigan laws and regulations that your marijuana business must follow:

Note: State laws are subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts, and ballot initiatives. Please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Related Resources

• Michigan Marijuana State Laws
• State Marijuana Laws

Learn About Marijuana Dispensary Owner Basics

• Setting Up a Marijuana Business: The Basics
• Marijuana Business Licenses, Permits, and Planning
• Medical Marijuana Overview

Call a Business Attorney When Opening a Marijuana Dispensary

Marijuana use in Michigan is moving steadily toward mainstream recreational use. As the cannabis regulations develop, there will be changing rules and regulations to follow in order to ensure compliance. Get your business off the ground and start on the right foot with the help of a cannabis business attorney who knows Michigan laws.