Navigating Cannabis Distributor Licensing in Las Vegas

Cannabis distributors play a crucial role in Nevada’s regulated cannabis ecosystem, bridging the gap between cultivators, manufacturers, and retail outlets. In Las Vegas, aspiring distributors must navigate a dual licensing regime—comprising both state and local approvals—before they can legally operate.

State‑Level Distributor License

At the heart of the regulatory framework is the Adult‑Use Cannabis Distributor license issued by the Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB). This permit authorizes the transportation of cannabis products between licensed facilities—such as cultivation sites, production centers, dispensaries, and laboratories. The CCB enforces rigorous standards, including agent background checks, fingerprinting, and proof of financial stability.

A critical component of this state-level process is obtaining a Cannabis Agent Card for every owner, officer, or employee involved in operations. Applicants—who must be at least 21 years old and free from disqualifying felony convictions—must undergo Livescan fingerprinting and pay a non‑refundable $150 fee per category, valid for two years.

City of Las Vegas Business License & Special Use Permit

Once state approval is secured, distributors must pursue a Las Vegas city business license. This requires:

  • Proof of CCB approval for the distribution license
  • A Special Use Permit (SUP) from the City Planning Department (usually processed concurrently)

Las Vegas enforces zoning regulations to ensure distributors operate in suitable areas. These regulations include submitting detailed site plans and floor layouts. The city further distinguishes between distributors inside and outside its boundaries through different fee structures.

Fee Structure & Renewal

Fee schedules vary depending on location:

  • Adult‑Use Cannabis Distributor (inside city limits): $10,000 origination fee
  • Adult‑Use Distributor (outside city limits): $100 origination fee

All cannabis-related establishments—including distributors—must renew semi‑annually, paying a renewal fee of 3% of gross revenue.

Operational Compliance & Support

Distributors must comply with state-mandated Metrc tracking (seed‑to‑sale), maintaining detailed transport manifests, security systems, and inventory controls.

Additionally, due to their role in the supply chain, distributors are classified as cannabis support businesses when generating at least 50% of their revenue from licensed establishments—but they are not considered retail support.

Suitability & Financial Vetting

City licensing requires thorough vetting of principals and key personnel (“suitability package”), including personal history questionnaires and potentially police clearances—especially for those who haven’t lived locally for at least two years.

Financial disclosures are also required, including documentation of liquid capital, funding sources, organizational charts, and proof of business registration with Nevada Secretary of State.

Summary of Required Licenses

  • State Cannabis Distributor License
    • Issued by: Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB)
    • Key requirements: Agent cards, fingerprinting, background checks, Metrc compliance
  • City Business License
    • Issued by: City of Las Vegas
    • Key requirements: Proof of CCB approval, Special Use Permit, site plans, zoning compliance, suitability and financial vetting
  • License Renewal
    • Managed by: CCB and City of Las Vegas
    • Key details: Semi-annual renewal; city collects 3% of gross revenue


Read More: Is There Room for Small Cannabis Distributors in Las Vegas?