Pot applications open Nov. 18

OLYMPIA — State officials will begin accepting applications for people who want to get into the marijuana business — legally, that is — starting at 8 a.m. Nov. 18.

The state Revenue Department will be set up to accept marijuana license applications any one of three ways at that point. Online , by mail or in person at a field office .

The application materials won’t be available until Nov. 18. Applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. Dec. 19. The department will forward them to the state Liquor Control Board, which will oversee the recreational marijuana industry.

A word of warning: The state is charging a series of non-refundable fees, including a $250 fee for every endorsement — grower, processor or retailer — sought. So if the Liquor Control Board doesn’t approve your request, you don’t get your money back.

For more on the process, check out the Business Licensing Service web site.