Requirements for cannabis goods

The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) classifies cannabis goods sold to consumers.

Nonmanufactured cannabis products

Nonmanufactured cannabis products are finished goods that only contain cannabis, plants or plant material. Examples include:

• Packaged flower
• Pre-rolls that only contain plant material
• Packaged seeds
• Immature plants sold at retail

Manufactured cannabis products

Manufactured cannabis products are finished goods that contain extracted cannabis or non-cannabis ingredients.

Edible cannabis products

Edible cannabis products are consumed by mouth and resemble traditional food and beverages. Examples include:

• Baked goods
• Candies and sweets
• Mints
• Drink additives
• Drinks

Cannabis concentrates

Cannabis concentrates are made mostly of extracted cannabis. Examples include:

• Vape cartridges
• Dab, shatter, wax
• Tinctures
• Tablets and pills

Topical cannabis products

Topical cannabis products are used on the skin. Examples include:

• Lotions and creams
• Balms
• Patches

Packaging and labeling

Packaging requirements

Cannabis goods are required to be in packaging that is:

• Child-resistant
• Tamper-evident
• Resealable (if more than one serving)
• Opaque (if an edible cannabis product)

DCC has guides to help you understand the requirements:

Labeling requirements

Labels have two parts:

• Primary panel – the portion of the label most likely to be displayed to the consumer at retail
• Informational panel – any other part of the label

DCC has labeling checklists to help you make sure all required information is on your label:

Download the universal symbol

The universal symbol for cannabis alerts people that the product contains cannabis. It must be on the primary panel of all cannabis goods sold in California. Do not alter the symbol, other than changing the size. It must be at least ½ inch by ½ inch in size.

What cannot be on a label

Consumers use the information on labels to decide what products they buy and use. That’s why it’s important that labels do not include anything that is false or misleading. Do not:

• Use the name of a California county, unless 100% of the cannabis was grown there
• Use designs attractive to children, including:
  • Cartoons
  • Images popularly used to advertise to children
  • Imitations of candy labeling
  • The words “candy,” “candies” or anything similar

  Report non-compliant product

  Tell us if you see cannabis goods being sold that do not meet the packaging or labeling standards. Report non-compliant product through our online complaint form.

  Other requirements for cannabis goods

  A complete list of requirements for cannabis and cannabis products is in the DCC regulations.