With 2019 now in the books, the Cannabis Compliance Division has tallied up the permit totals for the County’s first year operating with a Commercial Cannabis Cultivation ordinance. The Community Development Agency (CDA) accepted 89 Commercial Cannabis Cultivation permit applications. CDA approved 38 of those permits, with 51 currently in the review process.
In an effort to help create a safe and sustainable process for local business, CDA worked closely with stakeholders and the Nevada County Cannabis Alliance to receive feedback and adjust the permitting process to improve efficiency and consistency. CDA also heard stakeholder concerns regarding centralized on-site processing license types, and with Board approval, adopted on-site processing license types. “We are learning and growing along with the cannabis community to adapt to this newly regulated industry. There are challenges for everyone but working together is the best way to get through them.” Says Craig Griesbach, County of Nevada Director of Cannabis Compliance.
In 2020 CDA will continue to work closely with stakeholders to make process improvement strides in anticipation of the upcoming cultivation season and continue education and outreach. A free Cannabis season kick-off workshop is scheduled for March 5 at 5:00-7:00 at the Rood Center as well as another in May. These events will give insight to the permitting process and provide an opportunity to speak with staff. “We want to create an opportunity for everyone to get their questions answered directly.” adds Griesbach. Cultivators planning on submitting applications are urged to do so as soon as possible to allow ample time to receive permit approval and ensure they are ready to grow this spring.
"We have a great opportunity in Nevada County for our craft cannabis farmers and businesses to be recognized on the statewide and eventually national/international markets. At the recent, Emerald Cup Cannabis Competition, Nevada County cannabis businesses took home top awards, solidifying our region as producers of the highest quality products and crops. We are grateful to the partnership we have had with county staff which has been essential in educating the community on the permit process." adds Diana Gamzon Executive Director of Nevada County Cannabis Alliance, whose stated mission includes advocating for reasonable local policies and providing education to the community to support a thriving local cannabis industry.
The Alliance also hosts monthly "Get Legit" Educational Workshops for the cannabis community and recently launched a Buddy Program to pair cannabis permit seekers with those that have received a permit in 2019. Event and program information can be found at www.nccannabisalliance.org
For information regarding cannabis permitting in Nevada County, please visit the Cannabis Compliance Division website (https://mynevadacounty.com/2646/Cannabis-Compliance-Division).
The division can also be reached at cannabiscompliance@co.nevada.ca.us, or by phone at (530) 470-2626.
