Many medical cannabis growers in Jackson County, Oregon appear to be opting out of a growing license that’s now required to continue cultivating cannabis on rural residential land. Individuals caught growing with a license could face fines of up to $10,000.
According to a Mail Tribune report, however, county officials said they won’t be actively hunting down illegal growers. Rather, they will only investigate cases based on reports of a suspected illegal grow, or complaints from a neighbor.
Only seven people have filed applications with the county for a license to continue growing on rural residential land — Jackson County allows cannabis grows on farm-use and forest land.
“Some people may have moved onto lawful property. Maybe some decided not to grow,” said Jackson County Development Services Director Kelly Madding. “I also think there are people who understand we do enforcement on a complaint basis and they’re waiting to see if we come knocking on their door.”
Growers who have complaints filed against them will be given the opportunity to apply for a permit. Fines and other penalties will kick in if the grower refuses to seek a permit, said Madding.