Cannabis facility real estate FAQ

Not automatically. A licence is issued to a licence holder for a specific site. In an asset sale the buyer generally needs its own licence for the site; in a share sale the licence holder stays the same but ownership and key-personnel changes must be reported and may need security clearances. Get legal advice on structure before you sign.

Yes, in many cases. Since February 22, 2019, cannabis production is a farm use in the ALR, and local governments cannot prohibit it outdoors, in soil-based structures, or in qualifying crop structures built before July 13, 2018. Other structures, such as new concrete-floored buildings, may need Commission approval (ALC Information Bulletin 04).

Since March 12, 2025, a micro-cultivation licence allows up to 800 m² of grow surface area. A nursery licence allows up to 200 m² for flowering plants, and micro-processing allows up to 2,400 kg of dried cannabis or its equivalent per year (Health Canada).

Health Canada has required applicants to have a fully built site at the time of application since May 2019. That is one reason existing facilities attract buyers who want to apply quickly.

Licensed operators and new micro applicants, but also vegetable, mushroom, flower and nursery growers and some industrial users. Across Canada, several large former cannabis sites have been converted to food and horticulture.

Yes, with a Producer Retail Store licence. Since November 30, 2022, federally licensed standard cultivators, micro-cultivators and nurseries in BC can apply to sell from a store at their growing site.

No. Sean is a specialist consultant, and every assessment, remote or on-site, is a paid engagement quoted per site. On-site work includes travel. You get an expert opinion on whether the facility is viable, who would buy it, and what to fix first.

Yes. Sean is licensed across British Columbia and handles facilities anywhere in the province. Remote video assessments keep the cost down for distant sites; on-site visits are quoted with travel.