The Illinois General Assembly Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) released today new proposals from the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) that would allow cultivation centers and craft growers to cultivate cannabis outdoors. The rulemaking would add a definition of “licensed premises” that includes contiguous areas outside of an enclosed, locked facility. This rulemaking also would repeal rules related to craft grower canopy modifications that are in conflict with the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act.

According to the proposed rulemaking, cultivation centers and craft growers may grow cannabis outdoors if the outdoor area is fully enclosed by a continuous physical barrier that is at least 8 feet high; constructed of chain link and topped with razor wire or other security wire along the entire length; screened or covered so that the outdoor cultivation area is not within ordinary public view from nearby streets or roads; and secured by an access point or gate with the same security standards as the barrier and a method of controlling access.

For questions or requests for copies/comments through Sept. 28.2026, contact Sam McGee by mail at IDOA, State Fairgrounds, P. O. Box 19281, Springfield, IL, 62794- 9281, by phone at 217-558-3741, or by email at Samuel.McGee@illinois.gov.

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