If you’re looking to open a cannabis dispensary (officially called a “medical cannabis pharmacy”) in Utah, now is the time. Thanks to House Bill 54, passed in 2025, Utah is expanding its medical cannabis program by authorizing two new independent cannabis pharmacy licenses — one of which will be awarded before January 1, 2026.
This guide breaks down the full Utah cannabis pharmacy license application process, requirements, deadlines, scoring criteria, and key tips to maximize your chances of winning one of these highly coveted licenses.
What Is a Utah Cannabis Pharmacy License?
In Utah, retail cannabis dispensaries are legally classified as medical cannabis pharmacies. Only licensed pharmacies can sell cannabis to qualified patients with medical cards.
Key Details:
- Operate in compliance with Utah’s Medical Cannabis Act
- Must be located in designated underserved areas (more on that below)
- Licenses are not transferable — must be held for 15 years
2025 Utah Dispensary License Opportunity Overview
Available Licenses:
- Two Utah medical cannabis dispensary licenses total — only one is being awarded during this current round (before Jan 1, 2026)
- For Independent Pharmacies only (no existing cannabis business ties)
Application Window:
- Open: July 1, 2025
- Close: July 31, 2025
- Submit via: udafgrants.utah.gov
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Utah Cannabis Pharmacy License
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- No financial interest in existing cannabis pharmacies or production facilities
- Must commit to operate for 15 years without transferring control
- Must propose a location in:
- A third–sixth class county, AND
- A federally designated Medically Underserved Area (Check here)
Step 2: Secure Your Location
- Provide exact physical address
- Must be:
- 200+ feet from any community location (schools, churches, etc.)
- 600+ feet from residential zoning
- Include:
- Letter of intent from landlord
- Floor plan
- Elevation/architectural renderings
Step 3: Assemble Your Team
- Must designate a Pharmacist-in-Charge (PIC)
- Submit bios and credentials
- Conduct background checks and fingerprint submission for any owner (10%+) and PIC
- Owners must:
- Be 21+
- Have no disqualifying felonies or drug distribution misdemeanors in the last 10 years
Step 4: Prepare Financial Documents
- Submit proof of $100,000:
- Either via Performance Bond OR Liquid Cash Account
- Pay non-refundable $2,500 application fee
Step 5: Write Your Operating Plan (Core of the App)
Prepare detailed plans covering:
- Hours of operation (min. 35 hrs/week)
- Security, surveillance, emergency procedures
- Staff training protocols
- Inventory control and POS systems
- Patient check-in, consultation, and dosage verification
- Online sales, curbside, drive-thru, and/or delivery plans
Step 6: Submit Strategic Response Questions
These are heavily weighted in the scoring process (180 points total). Topics include:
- Timeline to open within one year
- Community engagement
- Cost-reduction strategies
- Product sourcing diversity and patient access
- Market analysis and patient population data
Step 7: Submit Your Application
- Bundle all required documents (max 100 pages)
- Use the UDAF Submission Portal
- Applications will be reviewed, and finalists presented at the October 9, 2025 board meeting
Scoring Criteria for Utah Cannabis Dispensary License
| Section | Points |
|---|---|
| Ownership | 20 |
| Company Background | 40 |
| Location & Business Info | 70 |
| Facility Plan | 80 |
| Staff & Training | 70 |
| Sales Plan | 90 |
| Security Plan | 30 |
| Strategic Questions | 180 |
Tips for a Strong Utah Cannabis Pharmacy License Application
- Don’t recycle — write a fresh application tailored to Utah’s current rules
- Use real market data to back up projections
- Prioritize underserved patient access and cost efficiency
- Secure letters of support from local government early
Work With Utah Cannabis Dispensary Application Experts
Winning a Utah dispensary license takes more than just a good idea. You need a flawless application. Quantum 9 has helped clients win licenses in 33 U.S. states and 6 countries with a 92.1% win rate.
➡️ Learn more here: Utah Cannabis Consultants
Conclusion
With only one new independent medical cannabis pharmacy license available in 2025, competition will be fierce. This guide gives you a clear roadmap to prepare your application. Follow it closely — and if you want expert support, our Utah cannabis consulting firm is here to help.
