What Is An EPC
EPC stands for Extended Plant Count. In Colorado, this refers to a special recommendation that allows medical marijuana patients to grow more than the standard number of cannabis plants if their healthcare provider determines it’s medically necessary.
Under standard state law, medical patients are allowed to grow up to six plants (with no more than three in flower). However, with an EPC, patients can be approved to grow more than six plants—sometimes significantly more—depending on their specific health needs and the recommendation from their licensed physician.
How Do You Get an EPC in Colorado?
To receive an EPC recommendation, patients must:


1. Be a registered medical marijuana patient in Colorado.

2. Visit a licensed medical provider who can evaluate their condition and determine if an increased plant count is necessary.

3. Receive a written recommendation from that provider specifying the number of plants needed for adequate treatment.

4. Submit the recommendation to the Colorado Medical Marijuana Registry, either online or by mail.
As of 2025, the state does not charge an extra fee for the EPC itself, but some counties—such as Fremont County—may impose additional fees for reviewing or enforcing local plant counts.
Why Get An EPC?
An EPC allows patients to legally cultivate more cannabis for personal medical use. This can be helpful if:
– You require higher doses or frequent use to manage your condition
– You prefer home-grown medicine for cost or quality reasons
– You use non-inhaled products like oils, topicals, or edibles that require more plant material to make
Growing more plants without an EPC can lead to serious legal consequences, even if you’re a medical patient. For example:
– Exceeding 12 plants without a proper recommendation may result in fines, criminal charges, or even felony prosecution depending on the quantity and situation.
– With an EPC, you’re protected under Colorado’s medical marijuana laws as long as you comply with your approved plant count.
How to Use an EPC at a Dispensary
Getting an EPC isn’t just for growing at home—it can also improve your dispensary experience. Some medical dispensaries honor EPCs by offering higher purchase limits for flower and concentrates, depending on what’s recommended by your doctor.
To take advantage of this, you’ll typically need to:
– Bring your EPC documentation (along with your medical card) to the dispensary
– Ask your budtender or receptionist to associate your EPC with your profile
Once verified, you can purchase larger quantities per visit based on your count
Not all dispensaries offer EPC-based purchase limits, but The Chronic Boutique is proud to welcome all EPC patients!
The Bigger Picture
As of 2025, medical marijuana is legal in 38 states, including Colorado. But while access has improved over the years, many patients still face barriers to fully benefiting from the law.
Extended plant counts offer patients more flexibility in how they access their medicine.
Still, getting one can be confusing, especially for those dealing with chronic illness, mobility issues, or limited financial resources.
That’s why clear education and compassionate service matter—and why we at The Chronic Boutique are here to help you navigate it all.
Keep Up To Date
Sign Up & Stay Updated
Be the first to know about exclusive deals, product drops, and cannabis news. Join the Chronic Boutique community — no spam, just the good stuff.