First I would ask why you want to open a dispensary? If part of your answer is the reward of helping people then go ahead. The day to day operations with customers will be the most rewarding, then the money. If you do it solely for the money, Karma will come back and kick you. Now let’s talk about the deets.
There are currently thirteen states who have legalized the medicinal use of marijuana. Each one of these thirteen states has different laws surrounding the purchase and distribution of marijuana. First you want to do all of your own research, but here is a quick break down of most states’ processes. Second you want to follow all state laws and don’t antagonize the feds who might still want to bust you, even though it is legal under state law.
- Get legal!This is just common sense plain and simple.
- Business Acumen. This can be a long process, for example, Marijuana dealers in Arizona and New Mexico must go through the state to obtain a license. They must also acquire tax stamps showing that they have paid the state tax requirements on all sales of marijuana. Enjoy the Process :-).
- Become a Patient. If you’re going to be in this field, your going to be around it so get yourself covered by Visiting a doctor, it’s easy. If you can, call around first to find one that will write you a script that will cover you for possessing more then the generally accepted legal limit if it’s possible. For example, if you live in California, you’re allowed to possess up to 6 mature and 12 immature plants in general but if a doctor recommends more then you’re allowed to possess more but never have more then 99 plants or 5 pounds because it brings federal charges.
- Incorporate. There’s a specific order of steps you need to follow. You need to create a collective as a non-profit corporation first, before you can get your licenses and permits. It’s recommended you form a collective and not a cooperative. legalzoom.com or hire a lawyer to make sure the paper work is right so their are no questions on liability.
- Sign a lease. You need to do this one last step before you can file for any licenses and permits. Why? The sellers permit and business license requires an address for your location; it’s no good anywhere else.
- Obtain a License. Ok, your finally ready to file for licenses and permits. Don’t skip this step, medical marijuana transactions are taxable by law. Usually, An annual fee of $100 is required to become licensed to sell marijuana.
- Pay Taxes. Tax stamps are $10 per every ounce you sell, don’t cut corners on this, pay your taxes, you will still be making money. All fees are payable to the Department of Revenue
- Open up for business!Don’t skimp out on security, it’s improtant. At least one security camera is required. Follow the law and keep a low profile, no matter what you do it’s still a risk in this business, but it is good to know that you are helping people. Good luck!
- Security. Watch your parking lot. Not enough people do and it leads to trouble. People loiter, roll up and sell bud to their friends and it makes you a target
For more information check out our Business Plans for Dispensaries at http://theweedbusiness.com/business-plans
I would like to know about how much it will cost me to open
a medical marijuana dispensary in NJ.
Also, are there any companies I can franchise
with?
Thank you.
Hey I’m wanna open a shop in California , I need help tho…
I have a ton of question… Please help me ??
After you get your license, Where do you buy your products? And from who?
hey brad,
I’m in college but I want to start a business I feel like the weed industry would be a good investment. Is it to late though for me to open up my own shop and how much could I make annually. Please email me back when you get the chance
I live in colorado and marijuana is about to become recreational. I would like to have some information on how I can make my business happen, I have read the amendments needed, I can have my own supplier, distributor, and retail businesses in no time at all. I have my own plan on how I can get around the feds which I will be at my own discretion for what details ill share. I just need a financial plan along with a way to get investors, so what I am asking is for a mentor to help me go through the process of making a business. And a bit of a tip on how I can make a financial plan. I have a rough sketch but I have not taken in consideration of utilities, supplies, employees IF I need any, etc. I also hear that I need to pay for inspection costs and such. What I was planning was a small delivery business before it goes recreational so that I have a grasp of what profits I could bring in, OF COURSE medical is taxed all to hell so I am not really happy about it since they are limited to oh so many plants. unless they make a “sister” branch of their business. Any advice would be appreciated and I would be grateful. Email preferably.
Thanks,
Kyle
Kyle im new and colorado with the same idea ( i have some BIG ideas for this industry). Also i have a background in sales. Maybe we could help each other help other people. Shoot me an email if so.
I also have been looking into the business because of the huge possibilities it holds. Wish I had the money for my ideas.
Hey brad, thanks for the offer of advice. I am currently working with a lawyer and another partner on opening a store in San Diego,,, I have heard a lot of rumors about the Feds coming in and breaking everything , what are your thoughts on this?
i was interested in opening up a medical marijuana shop in california i just wanted to know what tools i needed and what steps i should take to get to my goal?
Hello Brad……looking to help others….and myself as Im disabled, and this helps me tremendously.
Please email Puderbach24@yahoo.com
Thank you
Tiffany
How do you hire employees at your collective is it true you can only have volunteers?
Brad
If you are legit please get ahold of me A.S.A.P.
Thank you
Tammy
Brad, will you email me? I’m in need of information to help others by starting a collective of my own. I would like to know how to get started in the business.
How do I go about opening a collective in Oregon? Legal Zoom or get a lawyer? 420 college online course? thanks
I was wondering if any one had any info about michigan, there are 3 or more dispenseries in my county in Michigan and I am near the county line of a county that will not allow them so I have a prime location do i need just a business license should i let sheriff dept know? I am a patient already and like i said live in a county where patient to patient sales are legal.
I think it mite make the state here in indiana… So im looking to get info on opening a shop to help n serve ppl that have never been exposed to an herb of such healing powers… Marijuana should have been legal in whole world, but its not…so yeah im a southern indiana guy thats trying to pull his own weight in the business of healing…
I want to open up a dispensary to help people. My father was terminally ill with cancer. They say bone pain is the worst physical pain you can endure. I watched someone I love suffer for over a year, his last year on earth and the only thing that helped: weed, Weed that my father had to aqcuire illegally. How is that right or just?? My bf has the know how when it comes to the growing.. he’s practically an artist of cultivation and me.. well my hearts in the right place. We just needed a little directon in regards to legal technicalities and how to begin..and I found it! Thank you so much!
this could be a good thing, but there are too many fuck heads that will abuse this and screw over the people who could really benefit. btw that’s one stupid ass bitch at the end. “all drugs should be legalized” WOW just fucking WOW. she is so far off in the head she should not be allowed around we sensible beings.
ok brad, give me more info. I want to start a dispensary asap in Michigan. I’d like to know the best inventory management software, and the best items to buy to get started. Have the actual product, just need business help,
i was wondering the same thing about opening a shop in upper michigan the u.p
Brad can you contact me, carykilborn@hotmail.com
Thank you
Brad I’m moving to Cali in a couple months and would like to as k you some basic questions if you’re avaliable?
i live in las vegas how i can open dispensary in vegas tanks
I am a 3rd year college student majoring in Business Administration and also have 3 years Nurse Aide experience and I would like to start a collective. Currently, I do not live in a MMJ state, however, when I graduate college I will be relocating to one! Meanwhile, I would like to find savvy/ professional potential business partner(s) to launch a small collective. I prefer current or retired medical professional(s), serious student(s), and outgoing individuals that enjoy giving. If anyone is interested, feel free to email me at timothypatterson77@yahoo.com.
Also what are michigans laws on having a comfy place to medicate yourself in a controlled invironment? 7652053393
I need any info anyone has on opening a shop in michigan. I am new with the mmmp rules and such here but am interested in opening a southern michigan shop somewhere close to i-69. Any suggestions? Text them to my text free phone 765-205-3393
u should try the u.p we have none up here i was thinking about opening one up here too
I’m just so intrigued about getting started. I dnt know where to turn to get started. I have the money to get stastarted, but lack the know how.. I need help. Brad..
Brad, could you contact me at rev.timothymeans@yahoo.com. I live in Massachusetts and it’s just past the dispensary Are allowed to now and I would really like to get 1 started.
I am interested in opening a dispensary, what is a collective? would appreciate any help you can give me.
thanks
Marlene
In so. Calif and looking into starting collective. Lets talk brad.
Let me know
In so. Calif and looking into starting business. Lets talk brad.
I finally know what i want to be doing for the rest of my life. Thing is, i have no idea what my majors should be. I’m located in California and I would like to own a few businesses. My philosophy would be “I want to sell products worth your investment”. Nothing low quality for a reasonable price. (will do my best to keep it cheap). The businesses i am thinking of starting so far are a french restaurant and for sure a medical clinic. Something i am stupid for is, i have no idea what business major i should major in. Any advise i could get would be great. I used to work at a dispensary and it was a great experiance. Definitely something i want to do to help patients who really need it. (which we all do)
Brad,
Also the name off the paperwork I will need… I know about incorporating and the.resellers permit, but im unsure about just what other paperwork…
Thanks
Brad, I am very interested in opening a dispensary in So. Cal. But every city I go to is not giving out licenses… I can relocate if necessary, but can you tell me specifically who to talk to about obtaining the license (their city title)… and what cities are still dispensary friendly…. I have to resources to go brick and mortar or I can do delivery… I prefer a brick and mortar store front… Please help… Thanks…
I live in mass i have lupus and im doing my home work on how to open a medical marajuanan dispensary i have the money lawyer and location
I should really wear my glasses I apologize I just got so excited and want to help any way I can
Michelle
Hi what a wicked vote for Massachusetts winning the vote I use to live in California just moved back I have had medical marijuana liesence for 3 years now that I’m here it’s so hard to obtain I need to help out the follow mass and was wondering if there is anyone who is in this field that would be willing to help me
Many Thanks Muchelle
Brad, i would much appreciate having a discussions w/ you.
I want to open a dispensary in new Mexico what do i need to do do. I have capital, and I’m not no 20 year old kid this is a serious investment does anybody have true advise.
@BRAD I am really interested in starting a dispensary can you tell me the details i will need to know and steps i need to follow, it will be greatly appreciated.
for brad,i live in mass and interested in opening a dispensary.please help if you can.thank you
pumpkin im in mass too and want to do the same…maybe we could work together and help each other make our dreams come true…feel free to email me anytime,.
To Brad
Can you contact me by email, I would like to talk to you.
Le
Ok friends. If anyone wants help obtaining anything or just needs a littler direction on how to really get started up. Just ask me. I own a collective in southern cal. I will be more than willing to help those who want to help others.
awad samhan you are stupid cuz its not legal in illinois. you just want to sell drugs. sorry not gonna happen for you buddy. lindsey its just stupid of you to think that that dude is legit. even dumber to give him ur email address.
I plan to move to Denver CO in May with a few people. They have a few plans of there own but I was really hoping to open a dispensary at some point there. I’m pro helping people for sure.
I’m not sure what all I need to do. This information was quite helpful. But if you have any advice for me I would love to hear it!
There are technology concerns when starting a Dispensary to consider as well – paperless office, scan ID and Doctors Recommendation. Patient Intake, swipe Patient ID for fast and accurate input or record retrieval. Barcoding. With seed-to-sale tasking and tracking the system needs to create the bar code (for plants, and items w/out UPC code). Integrated Precision Scale – LEGAL FOR TRADE NTEP for Colorado! Track to the Hundredth of a gram, sends weight directly to PC. Inventory Management. Shows what is in stock and updates real-time, easy batch entry. Discount Pricing – enter your price per gram, then any breaks for 1/8, 1/4 etc., there is a lot more MarijuanaTech and you can try the SaaS FREE for first month serving ALL Medical Marijuana States. Budtender Station Bundles on hardware page.
How old do you have to be?
21 i beleive to open ur own
oh great article, thanks. Except you kinda forgot to break things down a little. oh and you forgot to tell people that dispensaries are illegal in California, just read the California Attorney General Guidelines on page 11.
ok my question is a person near me got offer a job taking care of the marijuanna plants for a grower who has his lisence and everything . th person near me has a medical card to use it . can he get into any federal problems for working there ?
awad, i would like to come work for you. i am great at what i do and would love to be a part of your business if you get it started. please email ms.spliff.therapist@gmail.com. look forward to it and wish you the best. peace love and happiness to all, and thanks for all the great info green ninja
I would like to estar to helps people, and I loking at opening a Dispensary , How To Start A Medical Marijuana Dispensary, Please could you let me know? Thankyou
what are the steps to open a dispensary and how do you come by your product when you first start. is there a legal way to advertise for it