Industrial Hemp Program

The College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences has obtained approval from the Industrial Hemp Commission (IHC) for a permit to grow industrial hemp for research purposes. 

Our research in the CAES focuses on the following:

• Identifying the best hemp varieties for producing CBD in North Carolina
• Determining the varieties of hemp that will grow in various parts of the state.
• Assessing soil health and growing conditions
• Investigating the use of hemp in new energy technologies
• Exploring the various uses of hemp

We are happy to work with small-scale producers interested in growing industrial hemp. In order to work with the university, farmers must first apply for a permit. The application is available at the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website (http://www.ncagr.gov/hemp/application.htm).

Are you looking for information on the NC Industrial Hemp Program?

1. You need a license to grow hemp in North Carolina. For answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the industrial hemp program in North Carolina and for an application to apply for a Grower's license, please visit http://www.ncagr.gov/hemp/Application-FAQs.htm
2. To watch an informative video about the N.C. Industrial Hemp Program, please visit https://youtu.be/2Xj_LaUa4Ac?t=360 
3. There is no Processor License in North Carolina. However, the state does maintain a registration list of first-stage processors. Being added to the Registration List is free. For instructions on registering as a "Hemp Processor" and to view the Registration Letter requirements, please visit http://www.ncagr.gov/hemp/ProcessorsInfo.htm
4. For information on getting hemp seed/clones for planting, please visithttps://industrialhemp.ces.ncsu.edu/seed-sources-for-planting/
5. To view the Hemp Connections "Want-Ads" page, please visit https://industrialhemp.ces.ncsu.edu/hemp-connections/
6. To see the Pending Applications to be reviewed at the next Industrial Hemp Commission meeting, please visit https://industrialhemp.ces.ncsu.edu/pending-applications/

For application-related questions, including to make changes to your license, to pay fees, or to notify that your plants are flowering, please email IndustrialHempRequests@NCagr.gov

For more information about the permitting process, contact the Industrial Hemp Commission at (919) 707-3236.