Why Choose Drivon Consulting?​

Each local jurisdiction regulating cannabis has its own unique set of standards and requirements for obtaining a local cannabis permit. These complex application processes can be time-consuming, daunting, and frustrating for both newcomers and experienced cannabis business owners alike. Since 2016, Drivon Consulting has continuously developed expertise in local permitting, compliance, and business development, exclusively serving cannabis business owners and operators.

Customizing each cannabis permit and license application to meet varied state and local standards, while also maintaining functional business operations, can be overwhelming, especially considering the large volume of materials needed to comprise complete and accurate application packages.

Let us handle the paperwork and red tape while you focus on planning and executing your business strategy for success.

We specialize in evaluating the goals of your business amidst state and local requirements for license approval, as well as providing legal and regulatory compliance solutions once your business is approved.

Contact us now for expert guidance and let us help move your business forward.

Our Services Include:

• Registration of Corporations through the Secretary of State Office
• Drafting Corporate Documents: Bylaws, Operating Agreements, and all corporate formation documents
• Local Use Permit Applications
  • Conditional Use Permits (CUPs)
  • Ministerial Use Permit Applications
  • Special Purpose Plan Developments (SPPs)
• Project Descriptions and Application Documents
  • Development of comprehensive project descriptions
  • Facility leases and purchase agreements
• Environmental Compliance
  • Commissioning environmental surveys and reports
• Facility Vetting and Design Consultation
  • Site selection and facility planning
  • Facility site and floor plan drafting
• Procurement of Administrative Documentation
  • Gathering all required documentation for complete local and state license applications

Over the past decade, our team has secured approvals for 40+ projects across more than 10 local jurisdictions, including both ministerial (over-the-counter) approvals and discretionary approvals like Conditional Use Permits and Special Purpose Plans.

Our experience ensures that each application is meticulously prepared to meet unique local standards.

Understanding Types of Cannabis Project Approvals

Ministerial Project Approvals

Ministerial approvals can be authorized directly by governmental staff without public hearings or votes by governing bodies. If your project meets established criteria in local guidelines, providing sufficient documentation ensures that your project WILL be approved.

Discretionary Approvals

Discretionary approvals, such as Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), involve a more complex approval process that includes:

• Public notice of hearings
• Recommendations from government staff (local planning departments)
• Formal public hearings before Planning Commissions, City Councils, or County Supervisors

Approval decisions are based on whether the project meets specified criteria; however, decision-makers maintain discretion to approve or deny.

Steps for Discretionary Approval:

Initial Application Review

• Application submission with detailed project descriptions
• Review and feedback from local government staff
• Referrals to other county departments for additional input

Staff Report Preparation

• Government departments compile comments into a comprehensive “Staff Report”

Public Hearing and Approval

• Public notification of hearing dates
• Public and agency input during hearings
• Final decision by governing body

At Drivon Consulting, we specialize in designing projects to meet all required criteria, working closely with government representatives throughout the approval process, and advocating effectively for our clients.

We proudly maintain an approval rate exceeding 97%.

Conditional Use Permits (CUPs)

Conditional Use Permits require a majority vote by the responsible governing body and include specific “conditions of approval,” which may encompass:

• Operational Restrictions
  • Limited business hours
  • Mitigation of potential negative impacts (traffic, odor control)
• Municipal Infrastructure Improvements
  • Curb, gutter, sidewalk enhancements
  • Stormwater drainage system upgrades
  • Roadway improvements
• Permit Activation Deadlines
  • A CUP typically includes an expiration date if not activated within a specified time period.
  • Activation can occur by commencing the approved use or obtaining necessary building permits.

Special Purpose Plans (SPPs)

A Special Purpose Plan involves larger-scale developments and typically includes:

• Oversight by a primary “Developer”
• Potential subdivision and subletting to multiple operators/licensees
• Individual improvement plans within overarching parameters approved through the SPP

Projects of All Scales

Drivon Consulting has successfully managed diverse projects, including:

• Small-scale microbusinesses operating in rented industrial suites
• Large-scale sites exceeding 100 acres, featuring extensive production operations
• Multi-million-dollar projects involving substantial investments into site and building construction

We exercise the highest due diligence and strategic planning regardless of the project’s size or complexity, ensuring each client receives exceptional service and expertise.

Benefits of Hiring a Local Cannabis Permit Consultant

Navigating the complex and varied regulatory landscape of local cannabis permits can quickly become overwhelming without expert guidance. By partnering with an experienced local cannabis permit consultant, such as Drivon Consulting, you significantly increase your chances of successfully obtaining your license or permit the first time around. Here are some key benefits:

• Expert Knowledge: Our specialists stay current with constantly evolving local and state cannabis regulations, ensuring your applications always reflect the most recent compliance standards.
• Efficiency: We streamline the permitting process by preparing thorough, accurate, and complete application packages, reducing delays caused by incomplete submissions or missing documentation.
• Advocacy and Representation: During public hearings and discretionary approval processes, we effectively represent and advocate on behalf of your project, helping decision-makers clearly understand your proposal’s benefits.
• Cost Savings: Avoiding costly mistakes or unnecessary infrastructure improvements through strategic planning and negotiation can significantly reduce upfront expenses.
• Long-Term Compliance Assurance: We don’t just focus on initial permitting—our ongoing compliance support helps your business consistently meet local and state regulations, protecting your investment over time.

Partnering with Drivon Consulting ensures your cannabis business receives personalized support and tailored solutions to overcome regulatory challenges and thrive in a competitive industry.

Ready to Streamline Your Cannabis Project Approval?

Contact Drivon Consulting today and let our experts navigate the complexities of cannabis licensing and permitting for you.