Philadelphia, PA Cannabis Regulations: Social Equity Licensing (2026)
Key Facts
- Authorizing statute
- 35 P.S. 10231.101 (Act 16)
- Adult-use status
- Not legalized
- Dispensary permits
- 50 statewide cap
- Equity set-aside
- None statutory
Summary
Pennsylvania Act 16 of 2016 governs cannabis licensing for medical use only; recreational sales remain illegal. The Department of Health awards a small set of grower and dispensary permits, with a diversity plan required but no formal Philadelphia social-equity carve-out yet.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health continues to implement the state's Medical Marijuana Program, signed into law on April 17, 2016. The Medical Marijuana Program provides access to medical marijuana for patients with a serious medical condition through a safe and effective method of delivery that balances patient need for access to the latest treatments with patient care and safety. This guide will connect you with medical marijuana resources and information for patients and caregivers, growers and processors, dispensaries, physicians, schools, and laboratories.
Full Breakdown
Pennsylvania has not legalized adult-use cannabis. The Medical Marijuana Act, 35 P.S. section 10231.101 et seq., authorizes the Department of Health to issue 25 grower-processor permits and 50 dispensary permits, each operating up to three locations. Applicants must submit a diversity plan describing minority, women, veteran, and disability participation, but Pennsylvania has no statutory social-equity license set-aside comparable to New Jersey or New York. Philadelphia advocates have lobbied for equity priorities should adult-use legalize, citing disproportionate cannabis arrests in city zip codes. Until the General Assembly acts, Philadelphia residents seeking ownership must compete in the statewide medical permit cycle and meet 35 P.S. 10231.601 capital and operations standards.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a Department of Health permit is a third-degree felony under 35 P.S. section 10231.1308, punishable by up to seven years prison and fifteen thousand dollars in fines per offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Philadelphia have its own cannabis equity license?
Can past cannabis convictions disqualify Philadelphia applicants?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
Compare Philadelphia to another location·View the Pennsylvania cannabis regulations overview
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