HEMP PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) is conducting a Hemp Licensing Program as authorized by state and federal laws. No person can grow, handle, broker, or process hemp in Kentucky without a license issued by the KDA.
Hemp requires a KDA License to Grow, Handle, Process, or Market
Individuals and businesses who would like to be considered for a license to grow, handle, process, or market hemp must submit the appropriate license application to the KDA Hemp Program. For more information on applications, please visit the Applications for the Hemp Program page.
LICENSE HOLDER LISTS
To verify the license status of a specific person, business, or location you may ask to see a copy of their current year’s Hemp License issued by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Hemp Grower Licenses expire on March 15 annually unless renewed. Processor/Handler Licenses expire on December 31 if not renewed annually. Each license is a two page document. The first page identifies the license type, licensee information, original date of issuance (this date remains the same regardless of how many years the license has been renewed), and date of this annual expiration. Page two identifies the license holder and has a complete list of the licensed locations including address, county, purpose, location ID (common name), and GPS coordinates for the field, greenhouse, or building.
License status of a specific person, business, or location may also be verified by the KDA hemp program staff. Please email hemp@ky.gov or call 502-782-4140 with your request. Law enforcement is encouraged to contact KDA directly if there are any questions regarding license status.
Kentucky licensed processors, handlers, and brokers are given the option to make their contact information available on our Processor/Handler List. Some License Holders have also voluntarily provided their contact information for the purpose of selling hemp seeds and transplants to other license holders on the KDA Seed and Transplant Providers List. Current lists are located on this page in the right sidebar under the heading “Forms & Documents” (mobile devices scroll down).
GOALS AND GROWTH OF THE HEMP PROGRAM
There is intense interest and enthusiasm across the Commonwealth for this historic crop. The Department seeks to build a body of knowledge on hemp agronomics that will lay a solid foundation for a new industry.
Kentucky farmers seeking an agricultural crop for inclusion in crop rotation plans or as a replacement crop may find that hemp is a viable option. Before you do anything, KDA asks growers to assess their financial risk before entering the industry. The hemp marketplace is still in its infancy. The supply chain is still developing, hemp varieties are unpredictable and many regulatory issues remain unresolved at the federal level. Market options for fiber and grain are limited and prices for floral material have drastically declined.
If you have visited all of KDA’s hemp pages and still have questions about the program, please send inquiries to Hemp@ky.gov.
ADDITIONAL LINKS