Hemp cultivation in Ohio is regulated by both state and federal laws. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp at the federal level, defining it as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Ohio's hemp program operates under the oversight of the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA).
This page provides an overview of the key regulations affecting hemp growers in Ohio. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the Ohio Department of Agriculture Hemp Program directly.
All hemp crops must be tested for THC content before harvest. Crops testing above 0.3% THC are considered non-compliant and may be subject to destruction.
Growers must report planting dates, field locations, and varieties to the ODA within 15 days of planting. Any changes must be promptly reported.
Growers must notify the ODA at least 15 days before intended harvest date to allow for pre-harvest sampling and testing.
Detailed records of all hemp production activities must be maintained for a minimum of three years, including seed sources, planting dates, and harvest information.
When transporting hemp within or outside of Ohio, growers must comply with specific requirements to ensure legality:
All hemp shipments must be accompanied by:
When crossing state lines, be aware that:
Hemp must be packaged in a manner that:
Compliance with hemp regulations is strictly enforced. Violations can result in significant penalties:
| Violation Type | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|
| Growing without a license | Criminal charges, fines up to $10,000 |
| Negligent violations (e.g., failure to obtain proper testing) | Corrective action plan, increased inspections |
| THC levels exceeding 0.3% but below 1% | Crop destruction, possible suspension of license |
| THC levels exceeding 1% | Crop destruction, possible revocation of license, potential criminal investigation |
| Three negligent violations in 5 years | Ineligibility to participate in the hemp program for 5 years |
Hemp regulations continue to evolve as the industry develops. The Ohio Hemp Growers Association helps members stay current with regulatory changes through:
Members receive regular updates on changes to state and federal hemp regulations.
Attend our workshops to learn about compliance requirements and best practices.
Members have access to advisors who can answer specific regulatory questions.
Become a member to receive timely updates on hemp regulations and access to compliance resources.
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