Dispensary License Illinois

The state of Illinois changed forever on June 25th, 2019. This was the day Illinois legalized recreational cannabis statewide. Despite this momentous shift in ideals, recreational cannabis sales in Illinois are regulated by a strict set of rules. For this reason, anybody considering opening a dispensary in the state should consult Shapiro & Associates. As one of the state’s leading boutique real estate and commercial litigation law firms, we regularly provide legal counsel to those pursuing a dispensary license in Illinois.

The Basics

We encourage our clients to familiarize themselves with the basic regulations a dispensary must adhere to in Illinois. The measures permitting the sale of recreational cannabis take effect across Illinois on January 1st, 2020. From this date onwards, dispensaries can supply recreational cannabis products to state residents who are 21 and older. Non-residents may also purchase such products but in smaller quantities.

In Illinois, cannabis licensing is controlled by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Under the DFPR, you must submit a Conditional Adult Use Dispensing Organization License application to be considered for a dispensary license. This must be accompanied by a $5000 application fee, which is non-refundable.

For medical cannabis dispensaries already operating in Illinois, there is an Early Approval Adult Use Dispensing Organization License. This allows approved dispensaries to begin distributing recreational cannabis from January 1st with no waiting period. However, those who pursue an Early Approval Adult Use Dispensing Organization License should be prepared for a significant expense. The application requires two separate, non-refundable fees. The first of these fees is set at $30,000 for all applicants. The second fee is calculated at 3% of the applicant’s total sales from June 1st, 2018 to June 1st, 2019. If this number should exceed six figures, the fee will be capped at $100,000.

How We Can Help

At Shapiro & Associates, we understand the positive impact recreational cannabis dispensaries can have on a state’s economy. For that reason, we make it our mission to provide low-cost legal counsel to all those applying for a dispensary license in Illinois. Throughout our history, we have worked extensively with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. We are familiar with the nuances of the DFPR’s application procedures, as well as those of similar bodies. This allows us to aid our clients in completing and submitting the paperwork prerequisite to obtaining licensing. We also help dispensaries overcome zoning issues, which have long been an issue for suppliers of medicinal and recreational cannabis. Should our clients require assistance securing real estate for their new venture, our attorneys will be there to ensure a fair deal.

Contact Us

When you choose Shapiro & Associates to help you secure your dispensary license, you choose one of the most respected law firms in all of Illinois. Our results-oriented attorneys will work with you throughout your application process to maximize your chances of success. Despite this, our rates remain cost-effective and thus are a possibility for big businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Contact us today to take your first steps towards your dispensary license.
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