Cannabis events in California offer opportunities to showcase products, educate attendees, and enjoy social settings where cannabis is legally consumed. However, strict regulations govern these events to ensure compliance with state law. Below is a beginner's guide to hosting and participating in cannabis events in California based on the Department of Cannabis Control's official regulations.

Licensing Requirements for Cannabis Event Organizers

Before hosting a cannabis event, organizers must secure the proper licenses. Organizers are required to obtain a Cannabis Event Organizer License to apply for temporary cannabis event licenses.

Importantly, this license does not authorize cultivation, distribution, manufacturing, or retailing without additional licenses. As stated in the regulations:

“A cannabis event organizer licensee is not authorized or licensed to cultivate, distribute, manufacture, or retail cannabis or cannabis products without first obtaining the appropriate licenses or authorizations.” (§15600(c))

Whether you're planning to host or attend a cannabis event in California, understanding these regulations is crucial to ensuring a safe and legally compliant experience.

Temporary Cannabis Event Licenses

A Temporary Cannabis Event License is required for events where onsite sale and consumption of cannabis are permitted.

Key requirements include:

• Application Timeline: Submit the application at least 60 days before the event starts.
• Duration Limits: Licenses are issued for up to four consecutive days.
• Venue Approval: Events must occur at venues like county fairs or other locations approved by local jurisdictions.
• Restrictions: Alcohol or tobacco sales are prohibited at these events. (§15601)

The event organizer must also provide updated participant lists and venue diagrams to the Department no less than 72 hours before the event.

Onsite Cannabis Sales and Consumption

Temporary cannabis events allow sales and consumption under strict conditions:

Sales

• Only licensed retailers or microbusinesses authorized for retail can sell cannabis goods.
• Sales must take place in designated retail areas and comply with daily sales limits.
• Free cannabis goods may be provided only if the retailer complies with specific requirements. (§15602)

Consumption

• Access to consumption areas is restricted to individuals aged 21 and over.
• Organizers must ensure that cannabis consumption is not visible from public spaces.
• Smoking cannabis is prohibited in areas where smoking is restricted by law. (§15603)

The organizer is also responsible for enforcing rules, including expelling unlicensed sellers and ensuring compliance with all waste management and record-keeping regulations.

Informational and Educational Events

For events focusing solely on education or information about cannabis, licensing requirements are relaxed. As long as no sales or consumption occur:

“Informational or educational cannabis events where no sales of cannabis goods or consumption of cannabis goods is occurring are not required to be licensed by the Department.” (§15604(a))

This allows for the display of cannabis products for educational purposes under certain Health and Safety Code provisions.

Security and Safety Measures

Event organizers must ensure safety by hiring licensed security personnel. Additionally, a clearly visible sign reading “No Persons Under 21 Allowed” must be displayed at every public entrance to cannabis sale or consumption areas. (§15601(i))

The Department retains authority to cease event operations if public health and safety concerns arise.

Participation by Non-Retail Licensees

Non-retail licensees, such as cultivators or manufacturers, can participate in events but only for display purposes. They may showcase cannabis products for inspection and education but cannot exceed possession limits defined in state law. As clarified:

“Cannabis or cannabis products may be provided to attendees of the event for inspection and educational purposes only.” (§15603.1(a)(2))

Non-cannabis items like branded merchandise and accessories can also be sold, subject to local and state laws.

Compliance and Enforcement

Cannabis event organizers are responsible for ensuring all rules are followed. Violations may result in disciplinary action against the organizer and participants. The Department may also mandate immediate cessation of the event in cases of non-compliance or threats to public health.

Conclusion

Hosting or attending a cannabis event in California requires careful adherence to the state’s regulations. By understanding and complying with the licensing, sales, and consumption rules, event organizers and participants can enjoy safe and legally compliant gatherings. Always consult the latest Department of Cannabis Control regulations for updates.