NJ Prepares to Welcome Cannabis Consumption Areas in 2025

New regulations expand opportunities for cannabis retailers and increase funding for communities impacted by criminalization.

NEW JERSEY - The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJ-CRC) closed out 2024 with key announcements, including the launch of cannabis consumption area endorsements and adjustments to the Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF). These developments reflect the state’s commitment to equitable cannabis policies and fostering opportunities for businesses and communities.

Cannabis Consumption Area Applications Begin in 2025

The NJ-CRC will begin accepting applications for cannabis consumption area endorsements starting January 2, 2025. Initially, applications will be limited to Social Equity-designated retail businesses owned by individuals with cannabis-related convictions or those from Economically Disadvantaged Areas.

On April 2, applications will open to microbusinesses and Diversely-Owned dispensaries (minority-owned, woman-owned, and disabled veteran-owned businesses certified by the New Jersey Department of Treasury). All other Class 5 retail operators can apply beginning July 2.

While there is no statewide limit on cannabis consumption areas, businesses are restricted in the number of endorsements they can hold. Applications must be submitted via the designated portal, with a $1,000 endorsement fee—$200 upon application and $800 once approved. Annual licensing fees are $1,000 for microbusinesses and $5,000 for standard businesses.

The NJ-CRC will maintain a publicly accessible list of approved consumption areas on its website. These spaces are considered vital for providing renters and others who cannot legally consume cannabis in their homes with a safe, regulated environment.

Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF) Increased for 2025

Effective January 1, 2025, the SEEF—paid by cannabis cultivators when transferring products—will increase to $2.50 per ounce, up from $1.24 in 2024. Mandated by the CREAMM Act, SEEF funds are directed toward educational, economic, and social initiatives for individuals and communities negatively impacted by cannabis criminalization.

Public Meeting Schedule for 2025

The NJ-CRC also finalized its 2025 public meeting schedule, featuring ten meetings: six in-person at 44 South Clinton Avenue, Trenton, and four virtual via Zoom. All sessions start at 11 a.m., with in-person meetings streamed live on YouTube. The schedule and participation details are available on the NJ-CRC website.

Supporting Cannabis Equity and Growth

The NJ-CRC remains focused on advancing equity and fostering opportunities for cannabis retailers and impacted communities. The upcoming cannabis consumption area endorsements and increased SEEF rate are central to these goals, ensuring broader access to safe consumption and funding for programs that address historical injustices.

For additional resources, application forms, and the full meeting schedule, visit nj.gov/cannabis.