In early 2024, DCR initiated the Annual Licensing Process. All non-retail applications will be approved by DCR on a rolling basis beginning in February 2024. Non-retail applications do not need to go to CRC for approval.
DCR is prioritizing review of all applications based on following criteria: (1) upcoming State license expiration dates; (2) non-retail Social Equity businesses who do not have a State provisional license; (3) Social Equity retail businesses; and, (4) all other businesses.
Non-Retail Annual Licensing Application Process
All Annual Applications other than Type 10 and Type 12 retail businesses will be processed according to the following steps
- Complete Annual License applications will be processed within 30 days. Once the application is confirmed to be complete, DCR will provide the Applicant with a Notice of Complete Application.
- Within 90 days of sending the Notice of Complete Application, DCR will either grant the Applicant an Annual License, or, deny the issuance of the Annual License without a hearing. DCR may deny a License based on written findings for any of the reasons listed in LAMC Section 104.04. DCR may also impose conditions to address public safety concerns as part of granting the Annual License.
- If the application is approved, DCR will file the Notice of Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). There is a 35-day appeal period for CEQA determinations.
- If there is no appeal, DCR will issue the Annual License.
Non-Retail Appeals
An Applicant wishing to appeal DCR’s denial of their Annual License application for any non-retail cannabis activity must submit a request for an appeal to the Cannabis Regulation Commission (CRC) and include the reasons why DCR abused their discretion or made an error in denying the license. The Applicant will have an opportunity to present their case to the Commission at a public hearing to be held within 90 days of receipt of the appeal. DCR will provide notice of the Commission hearing no less than 20 days prior to the hearing date.