Before You Apply
What can you do to prepare so you can quickly and correctly apply for a license?
- See our
Checklist for Applicants of Hemp Cultivation Licenses
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Navigating the Online Portal
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Background Checks
As part of the hemp cultivation permitting process, applicants are required to complete a background check.
To complete a background check, you must have the ORI number (Originating Agency Identifier) that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement has assigned to FDACS: FL925080Z.
The ORI number is currently active and may be used at locations that complete the fingerprinting and submission process (Livescan service providers).
Fingerprinting background checks must be conducted prior to issuance and renewal of your license. You will need to include a Livescan transaction control number and Livescan submitted date during the renewal process. Please continue to use the ORI: FL925080Z when submitting your fingerprints.
For challenges using the ORI number, contact (850) 410-8161 or ApplicantChecks@fdle.state.fl.us.
Land Zoning Requirements
According to Rule 5B-57.014(6)(f), Florida Administrative Code, a licensee must only cultivate hemp on lands that are used primarily for bona fide agricultural purposes pursuant to Section 193.461, Florida Statutes (F.S.), lands located within an area zoned for agricultural or industrial use, or at a nursery as defined in Section 581.011, F.S.
After You Apply
Enrollment in Agricultural Best Management Practices
When you receive your hemp cultivation license, contact the FDACS Office of Agricultural Water Policy at (850) 617-1727 to schedule an appointment to enroll your production in the applicable best management practices (BMPs).
Enrollment in the FDACS BMP program provides the producer with a presumption of compliance with water quality standards under Florida law, and is required in areas covered by Basin Management Action Plans as the alternative to undertaking required water quality monitoring.
