Florida Hemp Industry: Regulations

The state of Florida and FDACS have updated the rules and regulations to allow private production of hemp or adopt the federal regulations.

On May 13, 2019, the Florida Legislature passed the hemp bill (SB 1020).

On June 25, 2019, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1020 and on July 1, 2019, the bill became law.

The bill aimed to set a regulatory framework for hemp cultivation, handling, processing, and sale of hemp, hemp products, and hemp extract in Florida. The bill will require CBD products to be independently tested and have a stamp of approval from the FDA. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (“FDACS”) regulates industrial hemp cultivation.

The University of Florida (UF) has been authorized by Florida State Statute, the FDACS, and UF Board of Trustees approval to execute the Industrial Hemp Pilot Project. The UF/IFAS Industrial Hemp Pilot Project aims to study and share with Florida farmers sustainable methods by which to grow and profit from three types of hemp production: fiber, grain, and essential oils.

In April 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) approved the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services hemp plan. With the approval, the FDACS has assumed primary regulatory responsibility for hemp production within its jurisdiction.

How to Start a Hemp Business in Florida?

Those interested in starting a hemp business in Florida can apply online through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website for an industrial hemp license by visiting www.FDACS.gov/hemp:

1. Create an account.
2. Prepare an environmental containment plan.
3. Complete a background check.
4. Prepare a Hemp Containment and Transportation Plan.
5. Submit your application.

After submitting your application, you can review the progress of your application and then renew your license if your application is successful.

Licensed cultivators have certain ongoing responsibilities, like reporting crop harvests, maintaining environmental containment, and submitting samples for THC testing (hemp cultivation rules).

Florida Hemp Industry: Stats and Projections

In 2020, the FDACS has issued 705 licenses to grow industrial hemp, representing about 22,000 acres. There have been 9 licenses issued for processing permit.

In 2021, the FDACS has issued 732 cultivation permits in 65 counties with about 12,000 acres approved for planting hemp.

In 2022, there were 761 hemp cultivation licenses, 945 cultivation sites, and 8,000 of approved acres across 64 of Florida’s 67 counties.

In 2023, 482 hemp cultivation licenses were registered with 584 cultivation sites.

Florida could be in prime position to gain on industrial hemp with its unique growing season and markets.

Florida Hemp Industry Infographics

Florida Cannabis Market