DOVER, Del. — Today, Delaware makes history as legal adult-use cannabis sales officially begin across the First State. Starting this morning, adults aged 21 and over can legally purchase recreational marijuana and marijuana products from licensed cannabis retailers, marking a major milestone in the implementation of Delaware’s cannabis legalization effort.
The initial phase of adult-use cannabis sales is being implemented by a select group of Delaware’s existing medical marijuana compassion centers that have successfully transitioned into the combined medical and adult-use cannabis market. These conversions represent a critical first step in the phased implementation of the state’s comprehensive, regulated cannabis program—designed to prioritize public health, equity, and regulatory compliance.
“Today’s launch of adult-use cannabis sales by Delaware’s existing medical operators is an important milestone in the rollout of the state’s regulated cannabis market,” said Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin. “We’re grateful to all who have worked hard to make this moment possible and remain focused on bringing additional licensees online in the months ahead.”
Under the regulatory framework established by Delaware’s Marijuana Control Act and the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC), medical marijuana compassion centers that obtained conversion licenses are now authorized to engage in adult-use cannabis sales. Additional licensees—including cultivators, product manufacturers, retail facilities, and testing laboratories—are expected to become operational in the coming months as the state continues its rollout of the adult-use market. New licensees will support both medical patients and adult-use consumers in a combined medical and adult-use cannabis market.
Adult-use sales are possible thanks to landmark legislation passed in 2023, which legalizes cannabis for adults and creates Delaware’s regulatory structure. The legislation prioritizes public health, accountability, and social equity, and after extensive public input, OMC finalized a comprehensive set of regulations published in September 2024.
The conversion license process provided a critical jumpstart to the market by allowing sales to adult-use consumers to begin through Delaware’s existing cannabis retailers, while also generating $4 million in funding for start-up grants supporting social equity licensees. OMC received over 1,200 license applications during the 2024 application period, with 125 licenses awarded through a public lottery in December. OMC continues to issue conditional and active licenses to those lottery winners on a rolling basis, as background checks are completed, and licensees complete all regulatory requirements and pass final inspections.
“The OMC has worked closely with our medical marijuana operators to ensure a smooth transition to the adult-use market,” said Deputy Commissioner Paul Hyland. “Their ability to convert licenses has been instrumental in fast-tracking this launch. As more licensees join in the coming months, we will continue to focus on expanding access responsibly and fostering the growth of a strong and diverse marijuana industry in Delaware.”
Consumers are reminded that only purchases from licensed retailers are legal and regulated under state law. A full list of authorized locations and safety guidelines can be found at www.omc.delaware.gov.
For all press inquiries, please contact: John Petersen Chief of Community Relations Delaware Department of Safety & Homeland Security Office: 302-744-2686 Email:john.petersen@delaware.gov
