RI Opens Adult-Use Cannabis Dispensary License Applications
A Quick Guide To Applying For Rhode Island’s Retail Cannabis Licenses
Rhode Island’s adult-use cannabis market is taking another big step forward. With the finalized regulations from the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), the state is now accepting applications for twenty-four (24) new retail dispensary licenses across six geographic zones. Each zone will receive four retail licenses, with categories for open, social equity, and worker-owned cooperative applicants.
This next licensing round, open until December 29, 2025, will expand access, promote equity, and provide new opportunities for entrepreneurs ready to enter the Ocean State’s growing cannabis market. We previously reported on these license developments as they became know, but now is the time to apply. Below is a quick guide on what will be required and how to apply.
Property Requirements
Rhode Island Applicants must demonstrate control over a suitable retail cannabis location within the appropriate cannabis geographic zone. This includes:
- Property Control – Proof of property ownership or a signed lease agreement contingent upon licensing.
- Local Compliance – Zoning compliance with local ordinances allowing cannabis retail operations.
- Site Compliance – Site plans showing compliance with state security, safety, and access requirements.
Municipal approval is critical—applicants must verify that the property is located in a city or town that allows adult-use cannabis businesses.
Written Plan Requirements
All Rhode Island cannabis dispensary applicants must include detailed documentation (in the form of plans) showing the applicant’s operational readiness and cannabis compliance. These plans will require extensive detail on subjects such as recordkeeping and inventory, odor control, and emergency management. Having a team on your side to complete these plans without leaving any information out will be a huge help in becoming a qualified applicant. strategies.
The three types of plans required include:
- Business Plan – Reporting the business’ start-up funding, team experience, and operations timeline
- Security Plan – Outlining surveillance, alarm systems, and product tracking measures.
- Operations Plan – Describing staffing, training, inventory control, and consumer safety protocols.
Required Cannabis Licensing Fees
The Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission has outlined a multi-step application fee structure that includes:
- Base Cannabis Application Fee: $10,000 (non-refundable).
- Annual Licensing Fee: $30,000, due upon approval.
Additional Fees and Expenses
Applicants should also budget for local permitting fees, build-out costs, and compliance expenses.
Social Equity Provisions and Application Criteria
Rhode Island’s adult-use cannabis program continues its commitment to restorative justice through dedicated Social Equity Licenses—one in each of the six geographic zones. To qualify, applicants must meet at least one of several criteria, including:
- Impacted Area – Ownership – Majority ownership (51% or more) by individuals from disproportionately impacted areas.
- Impacted Area – Income – Household income below 400% of the median income in a disproportionately impacted area.
- Past Cannabis Convictions – Majority ownership by individuals or family members affected by past cannabis convictions.
- Economic Empowerment – Demonstrated business practices that promote economic empowerment in impacted communities.
These provisions are designed to open doors for those most harmed by prohibition-era policies and ensure more equitable participation in Rhode Island’s growing cannabis industry.
How Rhode Island’s Retail Cannabis Licenses Will Be Awarded
The CCC in Rhode Island will issue 24 total retail cannabis dispensary licenses, distributed as follows:
- 12 Open Licenses – Available to any qualified applicant (two per zone).
- 6 Social Equity Licenses – Reserved for applicants who meet social equity criteria (one per zone).
- 6 Worker-Owned Cooperative Licenses – For entities structured as cooperatives (one per zone).
Applications will be scored and ranked based on merit, with factors such as business readiness, financial stability, community impact, and cannabis compliance history carrying significant weight.
Looking To Apply in Rhode Island? – Canna Advisors Can Get Your Application Ahead
With high competition across Rhode Island’s cannabis market and a detailed licensing application process, expert guidance is key to standing out. Canna Advisors has helped launch and expand licensed cannabis operations across the country, providing strategic consulting, licensing support, and complete application development services.
Our team can help Rhode Island applicants navigate the CCC’s complex requirements, prepare compliant businesss documentation, and build a strong application that positions them for success.
Now is the time to prepare. Contact Canna Advisors today or book an hourly consultation to start your Rhode Island cannabis licensing application process.