Drug cultivation and manufacturing laws make it a crime 1) to grow, produce, and possess certain plants and other naturally occurring elements used in the production of unlawful controlled substances, such as cannabis seeds and marijuana plants; or 2) to produce illegal controlled substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, LSD, and Ecstasy (MDMA), which require use of certain chemicals and laboratory equipment in their production. Federal and state drug cultivation laws vary according to drug type and the amount produced.

For example, during a legal search of Dan's apartment, police find cannabis seeds, high-powered lamps, and remnants of marijuana plants. Dan can be charged with violating drug cultivation and manufacturing laws.