South Carolina Hemp & Hemp‑Derived Cannabinoid Law Guide

This guide provides educational, state‑specific information on South Carolina hemp and hemp‑derived cannabinoid laws as of October 8, 2026. It is for educational purposes only and not legal advice.

South Carolina, USA hemp laws: quick overview

South Carolina law defines “industrial hemp” as Cannabis sativa L. and any part thereof with a delta‑9 THC concentration not exceeding 0.3% on a dry weight basis, aligning with the federal definition (SC Code § 46‑55‑10, effective March 28, 2019) ([scstatehouse.gov](https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t46c055.php?utm_source=openai)). The SC Department of Agriculture administers the Hemp Farming Program under that statute and the USDA‑approved state plan ([agriculture.sc.gov](https://agriculture.sc.gov/permits-and-inspections/hemp/hemp-faq/?utm_source=openai)). SCDA guidance clarifies that total THC post‑decarboxylation must not exceed 0.3% dry weight; any hemp testing above 0.5% total THC constitutes a “negligent violation,” with three such violations in five years triggering a five‑year permit suspension (SCDA Hemp Applications page) ([agriculture.sc.gov](https://agriculture.sc.gov/permits-and-inspections/hemp/hemp-applications/?utm_source=openai)). In 2026, Bill 4759 added a framework for “hemp beverages,” limiting them to no more than 5 mg hemp‑derived delta‑9 THC per 12‑oz serving and restricting sale to those 21 and older; beverages containing other intoxicating hemp products are strictly prohibited (Bill 4759, effective upon enactment) ([scstatehouse.gov](https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/prever/3924_20260226.htm?utm_source=openai)). Bill 3924 (2026) further prohibits synthetic cannabinoids—including delta‑8, delta‑10, HHC, THCp, THCo—as consumable hemp products (Bill 3924, 2026) ([scstatehouse.gov](https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/prever/3924_20260318.htm?utm_source=openai)).

Shipping guidance

South Carolina follows federal law: interstate transport of lawfully produced hemp is permitted (SCDA Hemp FAQs) ([agriculture.sc.gov](https://agriculture.sc.gov/permits-and-inspections/hemp/hemp-faq/?utm_source=openai)). Inbound shipments are allowed. No state‑specific age verification or retailer registration for shipping beyond permit requirements. Only permitted handlers/processors may receive hemp.

Testing & COA guidance

SCDA requires testing using post‑decarboxylation or similarly reliable methods for delta‑9 THC per the state plan (SC Code § 46‑55‑10) ([scstatehouse.gov](https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t46c055.php?utm_source=openai)). Total THC must be ≤0.3% dry weight; >0.5% triggers negligent violation (SCDA guidance) ([agriculture.sc.gov](https://agriculture.sc.gov/permits-and-inspections/hemp/hemp-applications/?utm_source=openai)). SCDA permits labs; ISO 17025 not specified in sources. COA retention requirements not found.

What to buy

Products with delta‑9 THC ≤0.3% dry weight, compliant with total THC ≤0.3% post‑decarboxylation; hemp beverages ≤5 mg THC per 12‑oz serving for age 21+; non‑intoxicating hemp products (e.g., CBD, CBG) within limits.

What to avoid

Consumable hemp products containing synthetic cannabinoids (delta‑8, delta‑10, HHC, THCp, THCo) are prohibited (Bill 3924, 2026). Hemp beverages exceeding 5 mg THC per 12‑oz or containing other intoxicating hemp products are banned (Bill 4759, 2026). Products with total THC >0.3% dry weight or >0.5% total THC (negligent violation) must be avoided.

How to shop compliant, tested hemp

• Delta‑9 THC must not exceed 0.3% dry weight per SC Code § 46‑55‑10 (2019) and state plan.
• Total THC post‑decarboxylation must not exceed 0.3% dry weight; >0.5% is a negligent violation (SCDA guidance).
• All cultivators, processors, handlers must hold SCDA permits under SC Code § 46‑55‑20.
• Consumable hemp beverages limited to ≤5 mg THC per 12‑oz serving; age 21+ only (Bill 4759, 2026).
• Synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. delta‑8, delta‑10, HHC) are prohibited as consumable hemp products (Bill 3924, 2026).

Helpful resource: Learn more about South Carolina, USA

Educational content only — not legal or medical advice.

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