DOVER, Del. - Delaware will officially begin legal adult-use marijuana sales on Aug. 1, marking a major milestone in the state’s cannabis legalization efforts.
According to the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner, all medical marijuana conversion license holders may begin recreational sales on that date.
“The start of legal adult-use marijuana sales reflects the tireless efforts of our regulatory team and our strong partnerships with state agencies, industry stakeholders, and community leaders,” said new Marijuana Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin. “Our focus is on building a safe, equitable, and accountable marijuana market that delivers real benefits to Delawareans. We will continue to issue conditional licenses to previously selected applicants to ensure they can begin operations once active.”
Delaware enacted legislation in 2023 legalizing adult-use recreational marijuana and creating a regulatory system for cultivators, manufacturers, retailers and testing laboratories. The law placed a strong emphasis on social equity applicants.
Proposed regulations were released in May 2024 and finalized that September after two rounds of public comment. The regulations define licensing requirements and operational standards for the new industry.
“Delaware has taken a major step forward by launching a legal adult-use cannabis market that prioritizes equity, safety, and accountability,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “This new industry will generate critical revenue to strengthen our schools, infrastructure, and public health systems, while creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs. This revenue also gives us a powerful tool to invest in the communities most impacted by the war on drugs, addressing past wrongs and ensuring that the benefits of this new market reach every corner of our state. I’m proud we’re moving quickly and thoughtfully to build a cannabis market that reflects our values and expands opportunity for every Delawarean.”
In 2024, the General Assembly enacted additional measures to strengthen the program. House Bill 334 expanded parameters for cultivation and retail, while House Bill 408 created a path for medical marijuana businesses to transition into the adult-use market. Conversion licenses cost $200,000 for cultivation and $100,000 for manufacturing or retail, generating $4 million to fund social equity applicant start-up grants.
During the application window between Aug. 19 and Sept. 30, 2024, the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner received 1,269 paid license applications—far surpassing projections. In December, the office announced the successful applicants for 125 available licenses through a public lottery.
Legal sales will begin across Delaware on Aug. 1. A complete list of towns and cities in the first state's decisions on marijuana sales can be found here.