The hemp industry is changing every day. We’re here to help guide you - from answering your basic questions about growing hemp to understanding regulations and how they can affect you. Check out the FAQs below to get the information you need to help your business thrive.
+ Who can grow industrial hemp, where can it be grown and is there a size or zone requirement?
Anyone can apply to grow industrial hemp except one who has been convicted of a felony for controlled substance in the past 10 years. Anyone who has been issued a hemp license can grow on the approved growing areas indicated on their application. Licensed industrial hemp can be grown anywhere, indoor or outdoor. The research pilot program allows for any size growing area, from large acre lots to small garden sizes. There are no zoning requirements for a hemp license.
+ What is hemp processing, and do I need a license to process?
Processing means to treat or transform harvested industrial hemp from its natural state for distribution in commerce. If you are processing hemp for a product for human consumption, you are required to be licensed as a food manufacturing facility. You can get more info and obtain Food Manufacturing Permit on the TDA website. If you are not processing hemp for a product for human consumption or are processing for personal use only, you are not required to be licensed or registered with TDA for processing hemp.
+ Do I need a license to sell hemp oil or flower?
No. The TDA does not issue licenses for the sale of processed hemp products. TDA regulates rooted hemp or growing hemp.
+ How do I get an industrial hemp growers license?
Visit our Licenses, Permits & Regulations page or go to the TDA website to download the form. Once complete, follow the instructions to submit the form and fee to the TDA. You can apply for a hemp grower’s license at any time.
+ What does viable and non-viable mean?
Viable hemp is material capable of reproduction including; seeds, seedlings & clones. Non-viable material is not capable of reproduction, which includes stalks, leaves, and flowers.
+ How can I get guidance or a consultation on learning how to grow?
Contact us today to get connected with someone who can help. Your local county UT extension office is a great resource as well.
+ Where do I find seeds or seedlings?
See the [HAT Seed & Clone Supplier List] for contact information.
+ What is a Movement Permit and why do I need it?
TDA regulates the transporting of rooted hemp plants and/or transporting harvested hemp to a processor for commercial purposes. The Movement Permit includes the driver’s name, license number and vehicle information as well as the receiver’s name, license number and address. Although it’s not required in all instances, TDA strongly encourages you to have a permit before moving any plants or plant material.
+ Will the TDA inspect my crop?
Yes. Every crop grown and every variety may be inspected and sampled by a TDA plant inspector prior to harvest. The grower should contact TDA 30 days prior to harvest for inspection.
+ What is the inspection process like?
Hemp sampling will primarily be conducted by HATS-Hemp Administrative Testing and Screening, an independent third-party sampling service (NOT HAT). All growers will be sampled and inspected at least once this year. Inspections will continue to be done by TDA inspectors at no charge. It will be each grower’s responsibility to contact HATS at least 30 days prior to harvest to schedule sampling. The Sample Request Form may be found on the following website www.hemptesthats.com.
For more information about growing, processing and harvesting, visit the TDA Website.