How to Get a CBD License in Maine & Start Your Business

Maine’s CBD industry got off to a shaky start, with authorities requesting retailers to pull CBD products from the shelves in early 2019. Fortunately, after a new bill and some clarification from regulators, CBD has been legal for consumers and retailers in Maine for more than four years. ^[1]Portland Press Herald. “Maine hemp industry poised for growth as Mills signs bill allowing sales of CBD products“.Accessed May 13, 2025. However, while Maine is now a CBD-friendly state, it’s critical to understand the rules and regulations for CBD retailers before starting a cannabidiol business.

This guide explores how to start a CBD business in Maine, how to get a CBD license, the laws and regulations for selling CBD products in Maine, and other related topics. Read ahead if you’re ready to tap into Maine’s growing CBD industry!

How to Start a CBD Business in Maine

As with any business in Maine, setting up a new company is the first step in starting a CBD business. While running a CBD business as a sole proprietor or Limited Partner is possible, many CBD businesses choose a Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure. With an LLC, the business’s ownership group benefits from some liability protection, making it a less risky option than operating as a sole proprietor. However, if you’re unsure which business structure to use, it’s best to speak to a qualified accountant before registering a new company.

If an LLC is the best option for your business, you must register it with Maine authorities. Unfortunately, Maine is a bit behind the times when it comes to filing for LLCs. You must fill out the MLLC-6 form and mail it to Maine’s Department of the Secretary of State, Corporations, UCC, and Commissions. There’s no online option for filing for an LLC in Maine.

Next, it’s time to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Fortunately, the IRS does not suffer the same shortcomings as Maine’s business registration authorities — you can apply for an EIN online. An EIN allows your business to employ staff and acts as a formal identification number for your business, making it easier to access loans, vendor credit, and more. It’s also essential to apply for a business bank account. Doing so will make keeping your personal finances separate from business transactions easier. And it’s also the first step in building business credit!

After you set up your new business, obtain an EIN, and apply for a business bank account, it’s time to start handling the CBD-specific elements of starting your new company. Let’s dive in below!

How to Get a CBD License in Maine

Fortunately for CBD business owners, there’s no requirement to obtain a license to sell CBD products in a retail setting (although other traditional retail licenses may apply). This makes Maine an attractive state in which to start a new CBD business. With minimal red tape for CBD entrepreneurs, setting up a new cannabidiol business doesn’t have as many hurdles as found in other states.

However, if you want to start a business that grows hemp for CBD products, you will require a license from the Maine hemp program. In 2020, the USDA approved the Maine hemp program — it’s now possible to apply for a grower’s permit directly from the state.^[2]Maine Public. “USDA Approves Maine’s Hemp Program, but Ag Specialists Say Way Forward Still Confusing“. Accessed May 13, 2015 You can find the application on the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry hemp licensing website. There is a $100 application fee and additional license fees ranging from $100 to $500 (with extra fees assessable on a per-acre basis).

CBD License Requirements for Maine

Again, there is no retail license for selling CBD in Maine, so there are no “licensing requirements” to adhere to. To sell CBD products in Maine, just set up a new business and ensure you conform to all rules and regulations — that’s it!

However, for businesses growing hemp to produce CBD products, it’s essential to understand the requirements for the Maine hemp program. Let’s explore some of the key details required during the application process:

• Licensee’s personal information and contact details
• The legal status of the business
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Physical address of business or farm
• Secondary person contact information
• Details about any previously held hemp licenses
• Types of crops the business intends to grow
• Grow site details, including coordinates
• Background checks

Laws & Regulations for Selling CBD in Maine

Understanding Maine CBD laws and regulations is essential to avoid financial and criminal penalties. Firstly, all CBD sold in the state must conform to the Federal guidelines outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill — this requires legal CBD to be obtained from hemp plants, which must contain less than 0.3% THC concentration.

However, where Maine differs slightly from Federal regulations is the sale of food products with CBD. FDA regulations prohibit the sale of CBD food products, but Maine allows CBD food products if the product is produced in Maine.^[3]Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry. “Guidelines for Production and Sales of Food Items containing Cannabidiol (CBD).” Accessed May 13, 2025. This is a welcomed ruling for many CBD entrepreneurs in the state, as it makes it simpler to market food-based CBD products (this issue has been a hurdle for CBD businesses in many other states). However, this means it’s critical to ensure none of your CBD food products are imported from other states, as this law does not apply to different states and may result in legal trouble for your business. Likewise, there are other rules regarding the packaging of food products, including labeling requirements regarding CBD content and more.

Additionally, consumers must be 21 or older to purchase CBD products, so make sure to ID individuals purchasing CBD products from your store.

How to Renew Your CBD License in Maine

There’s no need to renew licenses to sell CBD products in Maine. However, this is subject to change; keep tabs on the latest industry developments in Maine to ensure you remain compliant with CBD retail requirements.

However, if your business grows hemp to produce CBD products in Maine, you must renew your license annually. Unfortunately, there’s no formal “renewal” process. Instead, you must repeat the application process, following the steps outlined in this guide’s “How to Get a CBD License” portion. This includes repaying the $100 application fee. On the bright side, Maine recently removed its application window, meaning you can reapply for a hemp license anytime.

Start Selling CBD in Maine

While Maine only has just over 1.3 million full-time residents, the state sees more than 15 million visitors annually, making it an attractive location to start a new business.^[4]Maine Office of Tourism. “2022 Maine Office of Tourism Highlights.” Accessed May 13th, 2025. If you want to start a CBD company, utilize this guide to ensure your business follows the correct rules and regulations in the set-up process. Starting on the right foot can make all the difference to your new enterprise.

Deciding how to sell and market your products is also critical. Many new CBD business owners choose to start online businesses, as eCommerce platforms make it simple to set up new retail businesses without significant overhead. However, as Maine benefits from a strong tourism industry, you may also want to consider having a brick-and-mortar location. Tourists won’t be likely to order CBD products online in Maine, so a physical location can help you attract foot traffic during the busy summer months.

Whether you sell CBD products online, in person, or both, choosing a payment processor to accept credit card payments is critical. Maine CBD businesses should opt for a CBD-specific payment processor. CBD merchant account providers specialize in the unique needs and regulations of the CBD industry. They understand the complexities of CBD sales and can provide tailored solutions that ensure reliable payment processing, compliance with state and federal laws, and lower risks of account shutdowns. This expertise results in smoother transactions, reduced disruptions, and enhanced financial security, crucial for sustaining and growing a CBD business in Maine!

Whether you’re a completely new business, or a seasoned veteran looking to sharpen your knowledge about eCommerce, we’re here to help.

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