How to Open a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland: 2025 Guide

In 2025, Maryland’s cannabis market flourishes at $1.7B in sales, bolstered by adult-use legalization since July 2023 and medical use since 2014, with a distinct approach featuring social equity lotteries and municipal control—differing from Illinois’ strict caps or Colorado’s open residency model. Maryland’s focus on equity and local zoning adds a unique layer, unlike Michigan’s municipal opt-outs.

Introduction to Opening a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Opening a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland stands apart with its MCA-led social equity lotteries, unlike Illinois’ timed draws or Colorado’s merit system. Municipalities dictate zoning, and 2025 sees expanded delivery options—contrasting Michigan’s open but patchy access. For basics, link to our core guide on how to open a cannabis dispensary.

Planning to Open a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Planning in Maryland starts with verifying social equity status (e.g., 5+ years in Disproportionately Impacted Areas), unlike Colorado’s residency focus. Target growing regions like Prince George’s; plans need operational and diversity outlines.

MD-specific steps:

• Equity portal: Confirm eligibility by Nov 2025.
• Site: Check 500-ft school buffers.
• Revenue: MD stores average $1.5M, tourism-driven.

Our MD planning article covers equity trends.

Licensing Requirements for a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Licensing in Maryland uses MCA lotteries for social equity, differing from Michigan’s open apps—2025 adds 75 licenses. Fees: $5,000 app + $40K-$165K license (equity reduces). 21+, no felonies.

Process:

1. Equity verification via OneStop.
2. Lottery: Regional allocation.
3. 6-year initial term, 4-year renewals.

For how to get a dispensary license in Maryland, see our licensing post.

Costs of Opening a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Opening a Cannabis Dispensary Costs in Maryland range $250K-$1M, higher than Michigan’s $200K min due to MCA fees and zoning. App $5K + license $40K-$165K; equity cuts apply.

MD breakdown:

• Licensing/Legal: $50K-$150K.
• Build-Out: $200K-$500K (municipal adds).
• Inventory: $75K (MD-sourced).
• Security: $60K.
• Ongoing: 9% sales tax.

Our MD costs guide includes 2025 updates.

Location and Zoning for a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Location Selection in Maryland enforces 500-ft school buffers—stricter than Michigan’s 1,000 ft in some areas. Municipalities control, e.g., Ocean City bans on-site use.

MD factors:

• Equity zones: Priority in impacted areas.
• Leases: $3K-$9K/month.
• Approvals: Local hearings.

Ouyee previews MD zones—see our zoning article.

Design and Layout for a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Layout Design in Maryland allows visible products (unlike IL) but requires secure storage per MCA. Ouyee’s cabinets fit MD’s delivery-ready layouts, unique to 2025 expansions.

MD tips:

• Zones: Delivery prep areas.
• Flow: Tourist-friendly in Baltimore.
• Compliance: Ventilation systems.

Our MD design post features delivery setups.

Compliance and Operations in a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Compliance in Maryland uses Metrc, limits 1.5 oz flower—less strict testing than IL. 2025 adds delivery regs.

MD ops:

• Audits: MCA inspections.
• Staff: Delivery-certified.
• Records: 4-year retention.

Checklists for how do you open a dispensary in Maryland in our ops guide.

Security Planning for a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Security Planning in Maryland mandates 24/7 video, alarms—similar to MI but with delivery focus. Ouyee integrates MD locks.

MD elements:

• Systems: Delivery vehicle tracking.
• Training: Theft prevention.
• Coverage: $1M liability.

Our MD security post highlights delivery risks.

Inventory Management in a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Inventory Management in Maryland sources MD-only, with Metrc; focuses on edibles for tourists. Daily audits.

MD steps:

1. Verify MD manifests.
2. Storage: Delivery-ready packs.
3. Forecast: Summer tourism.

Ouyee organizes MD stock—see our inventory tips.

Staffing and Training for a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Staffing in Maryland needs MCA badges and training; equity hires prioritized. Salaries: Budtenders $45K.

MD roles:

• Budtenders: Tourist focus.
• Delivery: Certified drivers.
• Managers: Equity oversight.

Our training guide meets MD standards.

Marketing and Launch for a Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Cannabis Dispensary Marketing in Maryland restricts ads near schools—similar to IL but with delivery ads. Launch: Equity events.

MD strategies:

• Digital: “MD delivery cannabis.”
• Partnerships: Tourism boards.
• Budget: $30K.

Our MD playbook has launch ideas.

Conclusion: Succeed with Your Cannabis Dispensary in Maryland

Maryland’s equity lotteries and municipal control offer a unique path—higher costs than MI but equity perks vs. CA. Plan $250K+ with Ouyee Display, your expert in 3D retail design and custom cabinets with 20+ years and 5 factories, for MD-optimized dispensaries. Contact for free consultations.