Identification Tags REQUIRED for Medical Marijuana Plants effective July 18, 2015
The Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) for the Medical Use of Marijuana were approved by the governor on July 6, 2015 with an effective date of July 18, 2015. As such, “The person who has been designated to cultivate marijuana shall have a legible identification tag, in a form and manner as determined by the department, on each marijuana plant being cultivated for the qualifying patient.” (See, section 11-160-31(b), HAR.) Simply put, any registered patient or caregiver who is designated to grow medical marijuana MUST place on each of their medical marijuana plants, an identification tag that CLEARLY shows their 329 registration number and expiration date.
Who is responsible?
The individual (patient or caregiver) who the qualifying patient has designated in the DOH registration application to cultivate marijuana is RESPONSIBLE to ensure that all plants are tagged. Plants that are not tagged or that are improperly tagged are subject to removal by law enforcement.
How many plants can be tagged with the same registration number?
No more than seven (7) marijuana plants, at a single registered location, may be tagged with the same registration number and expiration date. (See, section 329-121, Hawaii Revised Statutes.)
Can I keep a few plants at my house and a few at my caregiver’s house or other location?
NO, each registered patient must select a single location for all of their plants to be cultivated and this location must be identified on their 329 registration card. (See, section 11-160-2, HAR, definition of Grow Site.)
How/Where do I get the tags?
Patients and caregivers must select/purchase their own tags. The tag MUST meet the DOH guidelines. Acceptable tags are available for sale online OR can be made with items found in most hardware stores.
Where (on the plant) do I put the tag?
The tag shall be tied to or encircle the base of each plant and shall be clearly visible on the outside of the plant.
Can I make my own tags?
YES, as long as the tag meets the guidelines.
Guidelines for Proper Identification Tags:
1. Tag Material/Durability – Each tag shall be made of a durable water and weather resistant material.
2. Tag Color: Each tag shall be of SOLID color with black or blue lettering.
3. Tag Face Size: Each tag face shall be at least 3” long by 1/4″ wide.
4. Tag Location: Each tag shall be tied to or encircle the base of the plant.
5. Tag Visibility: Each tag shall be clearly visible on the outside of the plant.
6. Tag Content: Each tag shall be CLEARLY marked with the 329 registration number and expiration date.
7. Tag Lettering:
– Shall be large and legible enough to be readable.
-Shall remain readable if/when plant is subjected to watering or the elements. If any lettering on the tag becomes difficult to read then the tag shall be replaced immediately with the same registration number and expiration date.
8. Updating Tags: All tags shall be updated immediately upon the issuance of a new registration card (i.e., renewal, change of information on card = reissue of card and a change of registration number) or anytime the tag contents are no longer legible.
TAG Example
(tags below are made from items purchased at Walmart):
WARNING: Untagged marijuana plants or improperly tagged marijuana plants (not meeting the above requirements) are subject to confiscation and removal by law enforcement, and the grower or property owner is not guaranteed the protections available in chapter 329, Hawaii Revised Statutes.