LICENSE HOLDERS - Forms and Deadlines

The KDA Hemp Licensing Program issues Hemp Grower Licenses and Hemp Processor/Handler Licenses.

This program webpage is designed to provide license holders with specific details and deadlines for the program. All online applicants will submit their reports and requests through the application portal. Those who completed a paper application can use the forms mailed to you with your license.

• Greenhouse/Indoor Planting Reports are due within 15 days of the first planting AND quarterly: March 31, June 30, Sept. 30, and Dec. 31.
• Field Planting Reports must be submitted for each licensed field and are due within 15 days following planting.
• Harvest Reports must be submitted at least 15 days PRIOR to the expected harvest date.

Contact the hemp program team at hemp@ky.gov if you have questions.

GROWER GUIDANCE FOR UNSOLD HEMP AND PROCESSOR IN BANKRUPTCY

Growers who have not yet been able to sell their 2019 harvest may find this document to be helpful, Guidance for Hemp Growers: What to do with a hemp harvest you haven’t sold.

In light of the volatility in the national hemp market last year, the KDA is offering the following guidance for hemp growers, Guidance for Hemp Growers: What to Do If Your Processor Declares Bankruptcy.

PURCHASE OF SEEDS OR TRANSPLANTS

License holders intending to purchase seeds or transplants should first determine whether or not the variety or strain intended for purchase is listed on the Summary of Varieties List.  See the latest list in the right sidebar on this webpage.  If the variety/strain is listed (and not prohibited), no prior approval is required, regardless of whether the seller is in Kentucky or another hemp program.  If the variety/strain is not listed on the Summary of Varieties List, the license holder must submit the New Hemp Variety or Strain Request form with required attachments and receive approval before purchasing the planting materials.  That form is available in your online portal (or on the right sidebar for those with paper applications).

SELLING SEEDS AND TRANSPLANTS

If you are a licensed grower who plans to sell seeds or transplants, you are required to abide by additional regulations governing seed distribution and out-of-state transport of live plants.

Any person engaging in the distribution of hemp seeds shall adhere to the applicable Kentucky seed laws (KRS 250.010 to KRS 250.990) and administrative regulation (12 KAR 1:116 to 175). Go to the UK Division of Regulatory Services seed program website for more details.

Any person who intends to move transplants or other living plants to a location outside Kentucky must obtain a Class A Nursery License from the Kentucky Office of the State Entomologist. See their website for details.

PESTICIDES USE ON HEMP

Please click here to learn about pesticides use on hemp in Kentucky.

HEMP IN ANIMAL FEED

As the administrator of the Kentucky Feed Law and Regulations (KRS 250.491-250.990, 12 KAR 2.006-2.066, and KAR 3.007-3.042), the feed program of the University of Kentucky Division of Regulatory Services is responsible for the regulation of commercial feed for animals in the state of Kentucky. Please click here  for the current policy on the use of hemp in animal feed in Kentucky.

SAMPLING AND THC TESTING

KDA samples every planted location prior to harvest.  THC Testing protocol and post-testing actions can be accessed in the right sidebar (mobile users scroll down) under “Forms and Documents” in the document titled Procedures for Sampling, THC Testing, and Post Testing Actions.  KDA will report THC test results to License Holders.

Below, you will find a list of the primary deadlines for program activities and requirements.

LICENSE HOLDER DEADLINES