2025 Industrial Hemp Growing Season: Key Dates and Essential Steps for Growers

To ensure a smooth application process and secure your licence for cultivation, make sure to follow these essential steps and take note of the key dates coming up.

Preparation is Key:

Before applying for your licence, there are a few crucial actions you need to take:

• Review the Guidance: Familiarise yourself with the official industrial hemp application guidelines to ensure you provide all required information accurately and efficiently.
• Register on the Licensing System: If you haven't already, sign up as a customer on the controlled drugs licensing portal. Don’t leave this to the last minute—applying after 1 April 2025 may result in rejection.
• DBS Checks: All applicants and individuals named on the application must have a valid enhanced DBS check from Security Watchdog. Be sure to arrange this in advance!
• Annual Hemp Return: If you are a returning grower, don’t forget to submit your annual hemp return or your application won’t be considered.

Key Dates to Remember:

Thursday, 2 January 2025: The official application window opens. Any applications submitted before this date will be automatically rejected, so mark your calendars!

Friday, 28 February 2025: Last chance for new growers to register on the drug licensing system.

Tuesday, 1 April 2025: The final date to submit your licence application for the 2025 season.

Don't Miss Out:

Late submissions won’t just cause delays—they could mean missing out on your chance to cultivate this year. Avoid disappointment by ensuring you meet all the deadlines and submit your complete application on time.

The 2025 season promises new opportunities for industrial hemp cultivation, so let’s get growing! Apply now and make sure you’re all set for the year ahead.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/controlled-drugs-industrial-hemp?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-single-page&utm_source=40cf37c4-5afa-43f9-ad77-e1346746c1f9&utm_content=immediately