CA is a joke. I have never heard of anyone not getting a mmj rec in this state. I've had one since 99. Back then it was a bit tougher to find a doctor to do it but not anymore... Easier to get a mmj rec then approval to adopt a dog from a shelter. Plant count out here was generally 12 immature/6 mature plants. But back 3-4 years ago, the plant and dry flower weight limits from SB 420 were overturned. Since then, the plant count and weight is basically what your rec states but most lawyers will tell you to stay under 99, but that is more for protection from feds. Mandatory sentence jumps up federally for over 99 plants.
My rec says I can have 150 plants and 10lbs of dried flowers. That is the highest plant count and dry weight limit that I know of. My doctor in Los Angeles gave it to me. His normal one is 99 plants and 6 lbs of dry flowers. He will give some of us lucky ones the 150/10 rec like I have.... I can tell you in orange county, the cops will bust any warehouse grow they know of. I don't think it is that bad in LA. Not sure about San Diego or I.E. Nor sure about up north either in the bay area. Counties are allowed to regulate individually..
Of course if you have a very big grow, you are a federal target. 2.5 years ago they had operation full court press. They shut down a shit load of grows, dispensaries and it caused many in the industry to close up shop or leave the state. Never really was the same again after that. I don't know about the other states at all so can't offer much in advice there...