Industrial Hemp

San Joaquin County currently has a moratorium on the issuance of industrial hemp licenses. On July 7, 2020, the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors approved the Industrial Hemp Cultivation Ordinance that went into effect on August 7, 2020.

Emergency Ordinance NO. 4591

Industrial hemp cultivation in San Joaquin County is currently subject to temporary restrictions under an urgency ordinance adopted by the County Board of Supervisors in December 2021. The ordinance temporarily suspends the issuance of new industrial hemp production licenses and indoor hemp nursery operations while the County evaluates and updates local regulations.

The action was taken in response to public safety, enforcement, and environmental concerns associated with certain hemp cultivation activities, including alleged illegal cannabis operations, hazardous site conditions, unauthorized structures, and resource impacts. The temporary suspension allows the County time to review existing policies and develop updated regulatory standards intended to protect public health, safety, and agricultural resources.

Please review the full ordinance document for complete details, requirements, and legal language.