99 Plants Grower License: Cost, Process, and Legal Guidelines

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 legally. This type of license is often sought by medical marijuana patients, caregivers, and small-scale commercial cultivators who need to grow more than the standard personal-use limits. While some states allow this license for medical purposes, others regulate it under their commercial cannabis licensing programs. Understanding the cost, application process, and legal guidelines is essential before applying.

Cost of a 99 Plants Grower License

Application Fees

The cost of obtaining a 99 plants grower license depends on the state, local regulations, and the type of cannabis operation. Licensing fees vary significantly, but most states charge an initial application fee that can range from $500 to $5,000.

Annual Licensing Fees

Once the application is approved, cultivators must pay an annual licensing fee. The fee structure depends on factors such as the size of the cultivation site, indoor vs. outdoor growing, and the specific state requirements.

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

Additional Costs

Beyond the licensing fees, growers must invest in:

• Land or property lease: Purchasing or leasing a compliant property can cost anywhere from $50,000 to several million dollars, depending on location.
• Security systems: States require surveillance cameras, fencing, and alarm systems, which can cost $10,000 – $50,000.
• Utilities: High-powered lighting, irrigation, and HVAC systems may increase utility bills by $5,000 – $30,000 per year.
• Legal and consulting fees: Hiring an attorney or consultant to navigate compliance can cost $3,000 – $10,000.

Process for Obtaining a 99 Plants Grower License

Business Registration and Licensing

Before applying, growers must establish a legal business entity, such as an LLC or corporation. This involves:

• Registering with the Secretary of State
• Obtaining a Tax Identification Number (EIN)
• Applying for necessary business permits

Local Zoning and Land Use Approval

Each state and county has specific zoning laws governing where cannabis cultivation is allowed. Applicants must ensure:

• The cultivation site is in a legal agricultural or industrial zone
• The property meets state water and environmental regulations
• Compliance with odor control and waste disposal rules

Compliance with Environmental Regulations

Cannabis cultivation requires adherence to state and federal environmental laws. This includes:

• Obtaining water rights and irrigation permits
• Implementing waste management systems
• Complying with the Clean Water Act

Security and Compliance Requirements

State regulators enforce strict security protocols to prevent diversion and illegal sales. Security requirements include:

• 24/7 surveillance cameras covering all access points
• Restricted access to grow areas, with keycard or biometric entry
• Seed-to-sale tracking systems for all plants and products

Background Checks and Application Review

All applicants must undergo criminal background checks. In some states, felony convictions related to drug offenses, fraud, or violent crimes may disqualify an applicant. The state licensing board reviews each application and may request additional documents or inspections before approval.

Approval and License Issuance

Once all requirements are met, growers receive either a provisional license or a full license after paying the final fees. Licenses are typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

Legal Guidelines for a 99 Plants Grower License

Federal vs. State Laws

Even though many states have legalized medical and recreational cannabis, it remains illegal under federal law. The 99 plants grower license is recognized only within state jurisdictions that permit large-scale medical or caregiver cultivation.

Who Can Apply?

• Medical marijuana patients who require a higher plant count for personal medical use
• Licensed caregivers growing cannabis for multiple registered patients
• Small-scale commercial cultivators with state and local permits

Compliance with State Cannabis Laws

Each state has unique rules regarding the possession, transport, and sale of cannabis. Growers must comply with:

• Seed-to-sale tracking requirements
• Testing and labeling standards
• Sales restrictions (medical use only vs. commercial distribution)

Restrictions on Selling Cannabis

A 99 plants grower license does not automatically allow commercial sales. In most states, growers must apply for separate distribution and retail licenses if they plan to sell cannabis. Selling cannabis without a valid sales license can result in fines, license revocation, or criminal charges.

Taxation and Financial Compliance

Cannabis businesses are subject to state excise taxes, sales taxes, and federal tax restrictions under Section 280E of the IRS Code. Growers must:

• Maintain detailed financial records
• Report earnings to state tax authorities
• Pay state cultivation and excise taxes

Benefits of a 99 Plants Grower License

Higher Cultivation Limits

With a 99 plants license, growers can legally cultivate more cannabis than the standard personal-use limits. This is beneficial for:

• Medical patients who require large quantities
• Caregivers growing for multiple patients
• Small businesses looking to expand cultivation

Legal Protection

Operating under a state-issued license provides legal security. Licensed growers can:

• Avoid criminal penalties
• Legally sell to licensed dispensaries
• Operate without risk of plant confiscation

Business Growth and Expansion

A 99 plants grower license serves as a foundation for scaling up cannabis cultivation operations. Licensed growers can apply for:

• Microbusiness licenses
• Full-scale commercial cultivation licenses
• Partnerships with dispensaries and processors

Challenges and Considerations

Strict Compliance Requirements

State cannabis regulations are complex and constantly evolving. Growers must:

• Stay informed on changing laws and compliance updates
• Maintain detailed records for audits
• Pass random inspections

High Startup Costs

Cannabis cultivation is capital-intensive. Costs for land, security, compliance, and operations can exceed $100,000 – $500,000, making it difficult for small-scale growers to compete.

Market Competition

As more states legalize cannabis cultivation, growers face:

• Increased competition from larger operations
• Declining wholesale prices
• The need for unique branding and quality differentiation

Federal Legal Risks

Since cannabis remains federally illegal, growers may face:

• Banking restrictions (many banks won’t accept cannabis-related funds)
• Limited access to business loans and credit
• Potential federal enforcement in non-friendly states

Final Thoughts

A 99 plants grower license is an excellent opportunity for medical cannabis patients, caregivers, and small cultivators to expand their legal cultivation operations. While the licensing process involves high costs, strict compliance, and regulatory oversight, the benefits include legal protection, market access, and business growth potential. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, staying compliant with state and federal laws will be key to long-term success in cultivation.