The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) are hosting a free commercial cannabis cultivation permitting workshop in Santa Barbara on Sept. 25.

The free workshop is ideal for new and existing cannabis cultivators and those interested in the topic. Attendees will have time to talk with state agency staff about individual projects after the presentations.

Representatives from CDFA’s CalCannabis Cultivation Licensing Division will provide an overview of the licensing process for commercial cannabis farmers, including the required application attachments.

SWRCB will review the cultivation policy, water rights and water quality relative regulations, and other important information. Computers will be available for applicants to apply for water permits.

CDFW will cover Lake and Streambed Alteration agreements and how to limit environmental impacts. In addition, local staff will be available to answer any questions about the California Endangered Species Act and how proposed activities may impact threatened or endangered species.

Other cannabis regulatory agencies will include the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Franchise Tax Board, the Employment Development Department and representatives from the county cannabis program.

Details:

Wednesday, September 25
10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (presentations begin at 10:30 a.m.)
105 East Anapamu Street
Santa Barbara

These state agencies encourage commercial cannabis cultivators to obtain all necessary state licenses and county permits, as well as implement best management practices to reduce environmental impacts. Following recommended actions can help cultivators avoid common pitfalls that may lead to enforcement actions.

To learn more about CDFW’s role in cannabis cultivation, please visit wildlife.ca.gov/cannabis or email AskCannabis@wildlife.ca.gov.

To report illegal cannabis cultivation and environmental crimes such as pollution, water diversions and poaching, please call the CalTIP hotline at (888) 334-2258 or text information to “TIP411” (847411).