Virginia’s New Hemp Rules Take Effect as the State Prepares for Legal Cannabis Sales

RICHMOND — 16 August 2026 — Virginia has entered a new phase of cannabis regulation. As of August 15, hemp products sold in the Commonwealth may not contain more than two milligrams of total THC per package, closing an exception that previously allowed higher amounts when a product maintained a 25-to-1 ratio of CBD to THC.

The change affects products marketed as hemp, including items containing delta-8 and delta-9 THC. A product above the new package limit can no longer be manufactured or sold as hemp in Virginia.

Oversight is moving to the Cannabis Control Authority

Responsibility for regulated hemp products is also shifting from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. Current retail-facility registrations remain valid until they expire, while future application and renewal details are being transferred to the authority.

The CCA has received expanded enforcement powers, including the ability to act against unlicensed cannabis and hemp businesses, issue notices of violation, order activity to stop and impose civil penalties.

Retail marijuana sales are scheduled for 2027

The hemp changes arrive as Virginia prepares a separate regulated market for adult-use marijuana. State officials say retail cannabis sales are scheduled to begin July 1, 2027. The CCA must first develop rules, establish licensing and publish application timelines.

For businesses, the immediate priority is product compliance and accurate labeling. For consumers, the transition may make the legal market easier to identify as the state develops an official decal for licensed retailers. The broader goal is a single, more consistent enforcement structure before full adult-use sales begin.