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California
Cannabis Licensing Lawyer

At Seligson Law, we help cannabis operators secure and maintain the licenses necessary to operate in California’s highly regulated market. Whether you’re launching your first dispensary, expanding into manufacturing, or applying for a cultivation site, licensing is the first step in the process.

Our California cannabis attorneys guide you through the state and local licensing process with clarity, strategy, and real-world experience. We’ve helped operators across the supply chain navigate shifting regulations, respond to licensing setbacks, and build operations that actually last.

Get started today: 213-293-6692

“I’ve worked with other firms in this space, and the difference here is night and day. Seligson Law understands how fast things shift and what’s really at stake for investors. They don’t just point out the risks—they actually help you navigate them, make smart decisions, and move forward. They’re thorough, strategic, and totally plugged in.”

— Bobby Bruno

“When we were applying for our first license, we didn’t know what we didn’t know. Ken and his team walked us through every step, flagged issues before they became problems, and kept us on track through a pretty intense process. We felt taken care of the whole way.”

— Debbie Vladic, Dime Industries, California

“There’s a lot of noise in this space. Seligson Law cuts through it. They’ve helped us with everything from licensing to employment issues, always with clear guidance and zero BS. I wouldn’t want to do business in this industry without them.”

— Shawn Bean, Source Cannabis

“We’ve been in this game for years, and it’s not easy finding lawyers who understand where we’re coming from. Seligson Law didn’t talk down to us, didn’t overpromise. He just gave us solid advice and helped us get compliant without compromising who we are.”

— Avo, Qanabliss, Heights Cannabis

Licensing Counsel for Cannabis Businesses in California

Obtaining a license in California involves navigating both state and local requirements, often with distinct timelines, rules, and approval processes. Whether you’re applying through the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), working with local regulatory authorities, or both at once, the stakes are high and the process is unforgiving.

At Seligson Law, we help clients submit strong, complete applications from day one and stay compliant once licensed. We’ve worked with operators across the supply chain, including dispensaries, delivery services, cultivators, manufacturers, and distributors.

From first-time applicants to established businesses expanding into new license types or locations, we guide you through every licensing stage: initial applications, annual conversions, ownership changes, license renewals, and more.

Proactive Cannabis Compliance and Legal Defense

Licensing isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. Even small missteps or changes in ownership, operations, or compliance can trigger serious scrutiny from regulators.

We help clients respond quickly and strategically when issues arise. This includes addressing notices of violation, appealing denials or enforcement actions, and resolving application setbacks before they escalate into more serious issues. Our goal is to keep your business moving, your license protected, and your plans on track.

Whether you’re navigating social equity requirements, zoning challenges, or new DCC guidance, we help you stay ahead of the curve. We also provide long-term support to help you expand or pivot with confidence.

Why Choose Seligson Law?

Getting a license in California’s cannabis industry is hard. Keeping it can be even harder. We’ve helped operators across the state cut through bureaucracy, build compliant businesses, and make tangible progress in an industry that evolves rapidly.

We understand both the letter of the law and the realities of launching and growing a cannabis company. That means we don’t waste time with abstract answers; instead, we provide you with strategic guidance based on proven methods.

At Seligson Law, we believe in the businesses we serve. We know what it takes to go from vision to license to growth, and we’re here to help you build something real.

Our California Cannabis Licensing Process

At Seligson Law, we bring structure and strategy to an otherwise chaotic process. Whether you’re applying for a storefront retail, delivery, cultivation, manufacturing, or distribution license, here’s how we support you:

Licensing Consultation

We start with a focused intake to understand your business plan, goals, and the local and state frameworks that apply to you.

Application Strategy & Development

Our team helps you prepare and submit a strong licensing application, including business plans, ownership disclosures, operating procedures, and community compliance materials.

Regulatory Response & Support

If the city, county, or state flags any issues, we step in to respond quickly and clearly, resolving concerns before they become roadblocks.

Ongoing Licensing Compliance

Once licensed, we continue to support your business with renewals, amendments, regulatory updates, and long-term strategic guidance.

Get started today: 213-293-6692

FAQs

Do I need both a state and local license to operate in California?

Yes. You must have local approval before applying for or maintaining a state license. Cities and counties each set their own rules, and approval timelines can vary significantly.

How long does the licensing process take?

It depends on the jurisdiction, license type, and whether you’re applying provisionally or annually. Our team can give you a clear roadmap based on your situation.

What happens if my application is denied or delayed?

We help clients address deficiencies, appeal denials, and respond strategically to delays. Often, early legal support can get you back on track.

Can I transfer or sell my cannabis license?

License changes involving ownership or control require DCC approval. We handle ownership disclosures and corporate changes to ensure compliance.

How do I stay compliant once I’m licensed?

We provide ongoing support for operational compliance, METRC reporting, changes in location or management, and keeping up with DCC guidance.

Contact Seligson Law Cannabis Licensing Lawyers Today

If you’re ready to enter or expand in California’s cannabis industry, the licensing process is where it all begins. Let us help you get it right—and keep it right. Contact us today so we can get to work.

Get started today: 213-293-6692