State Reopens Hemp Edible Licensing as Cities Prepare for Ongoing Changes
Minnesota has reopened lower-potency hemp edible licensing as local governments continue oversight and monitor upcoming federal changes.
The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) reopened lower-potency hemp edible (LPHE) licenses on April 1. Applicants who applied during the October 2025 application period have been notified of their license status. Going forward, LPHE applications will be reviewed and approved on an ongoing, rolling basis, with no set closing date announced for this current window.
LPHE retailers
Local governments can view a list of all licensed LPHE retailers in their jurisdiction on the Application and License Holder Data webpage. This list is updated weekly as new licenses are issued. Local governments can also request a list of pending LPHE applications in their jurisdiction by mailing [email protected].
If a business may not be compliant with state law or local ordinances, local governments can submit concerns through the Enforcement Complaint Reporting Form.
LPHE retailers must obtain a retail registration from their local governments in addition to a license from OCM. The agency uses the Accela software program to notify cities of licensed LHPE retailers. Cities that have not received notifications from OCM should verify their Accela account or contact OCM. Because these licenses are now approved on a rolling basis, additional local retail registrations may occur periodically.
Pending federal prohibition
In November 2025, the federal government passed a law prohibiting hemp-derived products containing more than 0.4 milligrams of THC, effective Nov. 13, 2026. OCM will continue to implement Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 342, and local governments and businesses must remain in compliance with current state regulations.
The League of Minnesota Cities is monitoring how federal prohibition will affect cities and retailers.
