Cannabis (Marijuana)

All cannabis businesses in the state of Minnesota must receive a license from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). More information on what is required for license approval may be found on the OCM website but may include background checks, proof of adequate insurance, security systems, and verification of compliance with local zoning and building codes.

Businesses seeking a retail license may also be required to register with the local government in which their business is located. Always consult with your local government for requirements specific to your location.

Businesses required to register with the County, which are those located in areas either unincorporated or in cities which have delegated retail registration to the County, may find the required registration application form and documentation below. 

For more details, read Anoka County Cannabis Business Ordinance 2025-01, adopted in February 2025.

To apply for a retail registration in with Anoka County, fill out the form below:

Application information for Retail Registration

Application information for Special Events, requirements and application form:

Temporary Cannabis Event Permit Application

Chapter 342 of the Minnesota State Statutes allows municipal governments to delegate responsibility for registering, renewing, and inspecting Cannabis and Low-Potency Hemp Edible retailers to their county governments. Business operating in a city that has delegated this authority must contact Anoka County Public Health to complete registration.

 Currently, the following cities and townships in Anoka County have delegated this responsibility: 

• Bethel 
• Hilltop 
• Linwood Township 
• Nowthen

Any city in Anoka County interested in delegating should contact Joe Amerman, Senior Program Planner - Cannabis, to discuss the delegation process.

Like other psychoactive drugs, cannabis does carry the potential for misuse. Cannabis misuse, or Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) can be broadly characterized by a compulsion to use cannabis despite negative consequences. Over time, this can result in both mental and physical health issues. Heavy or frequent use can contribute to an increased risk of Cannabis Induced Psychosis and Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome/Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome. In addition, long-term inhalation of cannabis has been linked to an increase in respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis and asthma.

Cannabis use during pregnancy may cause lower birth weight, premature birth, stillbirth, and problems with fetal brain development. THC can be passed from a mother to her baby through breastmilk and secondhand smoke can irritate developing lungs. To lower risk, avoid inhaling cannabis products around children, and avoid cannabis entirely during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

To protect children and adolescents from accidental cannabis consumption, it is essential to store cannabis products securely and out of reach. Edibles, oils, and other items often resemble candy or snacks, which can be particularly enticing to children. Ingesting cannabis can lead to severe symptoms in kids, including confusion, drowsiness, and difficulty breathing. To ensure safety:

• Store products in their original, child-resistant packaging.
• Keep products in secure and locked places.
• Store edibles separate from food.
• Make sure products are out of sight and out of reach from children and pets.

Additional educational resources can be found by visiting the Office of Cannabis Management, the Public Health Law Center, and the University of Minnesota's Cannabis Research Center. Links to each can be found below. As the Minnesota cannabis market emerges, more educational materials will be provided.

• What to know about Cannabis for You, Your Baby, and Young Children
• Know the Facts: Cannabis and THC Products
• Office of Cannabis Management
• The Public Health Law Center
• University of Minnesota's Cannabis Research Center