Hemp farming applications now open; permit fees reduced

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Hemp farming applications for the 2022 growing season are now open, and permit fees have been cut in half. 

Anyone wishing to farm hemp is S.C. in 2022 must apply online between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28 at agriculture.sc.gov/hemp. The farming permit application fee is $100, and new permit fees, effective Jan. 1, are posted online. 

A background check must be completed to qualify for a permit, which are only open to state residents. Permits must be renewed each year.

The reduced fees are a result of the support of the S.C. General Assembly and the work of the S.C. Department of Agriculture during the past four years to create a strong hemp farming program, according to a news release from the agriculture department. 

The department’s residue laboratory, which will offer official THC analysis, is nearing completion and is expected to be operational next summer. Hemp farmers must have their crop tested before harvest to ensure it does not exceed legal TCH levels. The nationally certified, state-run lab will help cut costs and improve operations, the department said. 

In addition, the SCDA seed laboratory is now equipped for hemp seed germination and purity analysis.