Where is Weed Legal In The US? Legalization Guide

Cannabis laws have come a long way in the U.S., and if you’ve been wondering where weed is legal—and where it’s still off-limits—you’re not alone.

Cannabis laws are constantly evolving—this map reflects the latest updates as of April 2025.

*Despite legislative efforts, Virginia has not established a regulated market for recreational cannabis sales. Possession and home cultivation for adults 21 and older is legal.

Is Weed Legal in Alabama?

The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) is in charge of overseeing the state's medical cannabis program, which was founded in 2021.

A certified physician must certify the patient. Patients can apply for a medicinal cannabis patient registration card after receiving certification.

Dispensaries with a license can sell medical marijuana in Alabama. 

Up to 4 ounces of cannabis flower, 36 grams of THC-infused goods, and up to four plants for home production are permissible for patients to possess.

Alabama still lacks recreational cannabis legalization. In Alabama, having any amount of cannabis in your possession is illegal and can result in up to a year in jail and a $6,000 fine.

Even if you possess a medical marijuana card from another state, it is still unlawful to transfer cannabis across state boundaries.

Additionally, it is forbidden to use cannabis in parks, beaches, and walkways as well as forbidden to operate a vehicle when high on cannabis.

On June 12, 2023, the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission issued its first round of licenses; however, a few days later, the commission determined that the licensing procedure needed to be reviewed.

As of now, dispensaries are just beginning to roll out, with delays and licensing issues slowing the program.

In March 2025, an appeals court ruling allowed the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission to resume issuing licenses, aiming to expedite the program's launch.  

Despite this progress, the program remains in development, with no set date for when patients can access medical cannabis products

Please visit the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission website for additional details about the state's medical marijuana program.

Is Weed Legal in Alaska?

Yes, as of April 2025 marijuana use for medicinal as well as recreational purposes is legal in Alaska.

Medical cannabis was legalized in 1998 and recreational in 2015.

Home cultivation is legal for both medical and recreational users.

Adults can gift up to 1 ounce of cannabis and up to 6 immature plants to another adult, provided no compensation is involved.

Is Weed Legal in Arizona?

Medical and recreational weed is legal in Arizona.

The Department of Health Services in Arizona is responsible for overseeing the state's medical cannabis program, which was founded in 2010 (ADHS).

Qualifying conditions for medical cannabis include: Cancer, chronic pain, Crohn's disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, obstructive sleep apnea, Parkinson's disease, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe and persistent nausea, Tourette syndrome, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Additionally, a certified physician must certify the patient. Patients can apply for a medicinal cannabis registry identity card after receiving certification.

Dispensaries with a license can sell medical marijuana. At any given moment, patients are permitted to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower and up to 5 grams of concentrate

Arizona made recreational cannabis use legal for those over 21 in 2020.

Adults are permitted to have up to 2.5 pounds of cannabis flower and up to 5 grams of concentrate in their homes.

Retailers with licenses can sell cannabis for recreational use.

It is forbidden to use cannabis in parks, beaches, and sidewalks, among other public areas.

It is unlawful to cultivate cannabis at home.

Additionally, selling cannabis without a license is prohibited.

Advertisements to minors are prohibited for cannabis businesses.

Since legalization, the state has experienced a rise in employment and tourism.

A bill allowing medical patients to cultivate up to six plants at home for medical purposes was passed by the Arizona State Legislature in 2023.

Please visit the Arizona Department of Health Services website for additional details on the state's cannabis regulations, both for medical and recreational use.

Is Weed Legal in Arkansas?

​As of April 2025, Arkansas permits medical cannabis use under strict regulations, while recreational cannabis remains illegal. 

At any given time, patients are permitted to possess up to 12 grams of concentrates and up to 4 ounces of cannabis flower.

Dispensaries with a license can sell medical marijuana. As of 2025 there are 35 dispensaries.

Home cultivation is not permitted.

Please visit the websites of the Arkansas Department of Health and the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration for additional details on the state's legislation pertaining to cannabis use for medical and recreational purposes.

Is Weed Legal in California?

Yes, marijuana use for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is legal in the state of California.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is in charge of overseeing the state's 1996 implementation of the medical cannabis program.

Additionally, a certified physician must certify the patient. Patients can apply for a medical marijuana identity card (MMIC) after receiving certification.

Dispensaries with a license can sell medical marijuana in California.

Up to 8 ounces of dried cannabis flower, 28 grams of concentrated cannabis, and 72 ounces of edible cannabis products are permissible for patients to own at any given time.

2016 saw California legalize marijuana for recreational use by adults 21 years of age and up.

At any given moment, adults are allowed to have up to 72 ounces of edible cannabis products, 8 grams of concentrated cannabis, and 28.5 grams of dried cannabis flower.

Retailers with licenses can sell cannabis for recreational use.

Colorado Cannabis Laws

Medical and recreational cannabis is legal in Colorado. Medical cannabis was established in 2000 and recreational in 2012.

It is legal to grow up to 6 plants at home.

The cannabis industry has become a substantial contributor to the state's economy, influencing tourism and job creation.

Effective April 1, 2025, Colorado has reformed its social equity program, introducing independent delivery licenses and accelerator licenses aimed at supporting communities disproportionately affected by past cannabis enforcement policies.

Is Weed Legal in Connecticut?

Medical cannabis was legalized in 2012 and recreational cannabis became legal in 2021, following the passage of Senate Bill 1201.

Medical and recreational users can grow up to 6 plants at their home.

In 2023 Connecticut starting expunges low-level cannabis possession convictions.

Is Weed Legal in Delaware?

The Delaware Division of Public Health oversees the state's medical marijuana program, which was started in 2011.

Recreational cannabis was legalized on April 23, 2023, when Governor John Carney allowed House Bills 1 and 2 to become law without his signature.

Patients must have one of the following medical problems to be eligible for the program: seizures, severe and persistent nausea, cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, HIV/AIDS, muscular dystrophy, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Medical marijuana is available for purchase from authorized dispensaries. Up to three ounces of usable marijuana each 14 days, or a total of six ounces per month, are permitted for patients to possess.

Home cultivation is not permitted.

Is Weed Legal In Florida?

Yes, marijuana is permitted for medical use in Florida.

Marijuana for recreational purposes is still against the law.

Patients with conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, PTSD, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Crohn’s disease, and chronic nonmalignant pain may be eligible.​

Recreational cannabis was on the ballot in November of 2024 but did not pass with a 60% majority.

Home cultivation is currently prohibited.

Many local jurisdictions have decriminalized possession of small amounts of cannabis.

Is Weed Legal In Georgia?

The usage of marijuana in Georgia for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law.

Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

Individuals who meet certain criteria are permitted to carry low-THC oil, but it is illegal to be in possession of the drug in any other form or for recreational use.

Possession of less than one ounce of marijuana can result in a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars.

Some local governments have eliminated jail sentences for marijuana possession offenses and replaced them with fines ranging from $75 to $500 instead.

Hawaii Cannabis Laws

Hawaii allows the use of cannabis for medical purposes.

Establishing the program in 2000, the Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH) oversees the state's medical cannabis laws.

Authorized dispensaries sell medical marijuana. At any given moment, patients are permitted to possess up to 8 grams of potent cannabis and up to 4 ounces of dried flower.

In Hawaii, recreational cannabis is still illegal but the laws are a touch more lenient than other medical only States.

Adults may possess up to 5 grams of concentrated cannabis and 1 ounce of dried cannabis flower in a public setting.

Adults may also have up to 15 grams of concentrated cannabis and up to 3 ounces of dried cannabis flower in their personal dwelling.

Is Weed Legal In Idaho?

Weed is illegal for medical or recreational use. The Gem State is one of the few still enforcing outdated weed policies.

Even possession of small amounts could land you a misdemeanor.

Illinois Cannabis Laws

Indeed, the use of marijuana for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted in Illinois.

Medical cannabis was legalized in 2014 under the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program Act.​

Recreational cannabis was legalized on January 1, 2020, through the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (CRTA).

Home cultivation is prohibited for recreational use but medical patients may grow up to 5 plants.

Is Weed Legal in Indiana?

The use of marijuana for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law in the state of Indiana.

Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

There have been several attempts to pass cannabis legalization bills, but as of April 2025, none have made it out of committee.

Indiana does allow low-level THC CBD oil.

Is Weed Legal In Iowa?

Along with Idaho, Indiana, and Kansas, Iowa has one of the most dated weed laws on the books.

Iowas has a Medical Cannabidiol Program.

Under the law, only CBD with a trace amount of THC is legal for patients.

While weed is legal on paper, the state’s rules have throttled patient count and overall sales.

Is Weed Legal In Kansas?

Marijuana usage, whether for medical or recreational purposes, is not legal in Kansas.

Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

In March 2025, Senate Bill 294 was introduced to establish the Kansas Medical Cannabis Act, aiming to authorize the cultivation, processing, distribution, sale, and use of medical cannabis products.

A 2024 survey indicated that nearly 70% of Kansans support legalizing adult-use cannabis.

Is Weed Legal In Kentucky?

SB 47 was signed into law by Governor Andy Beshear on March 31, 2023, establishing the state's medical cannabis program effective January 1, 2025.

Patients must have a qualifying medical condition such as cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic nausea, or PTSD. 

The Kentucky Center for Cannabis Research may add other conditions as appropriate.

The state plans to issue 48 dispensary licenses across 11 regions to ensure accessibility. Licensees are selected through a lottery system.

Recreationally cannabis remains illegal.

Is Weed Legal In Louisiana?

Marijuana is permitted for medical purposes in Louisiana. Adult-use remains illegal with no end in sight.

Lawmakers have softened their severe penalties over the years. The state is still a long way away from getting adult-use weed. It has reformed its program to provide more access for its patients.

Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana in Louisiana

• Cancer
• HIV/AIDS
• Cachexia or wasting disorder
• Seizures disorders (including but not limited to epilepsy)
• Spasticity
• Crohn’s disease
• Muscular dystrophy
• Severe muscle spasms
• Glaucoma
• Parkinson’s disease
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Multiple sclerosis
• Intractable pain
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Traumatic brain injury
• Concussion
• Chronic pain associated with either fibromyalgia or sickle cell disease
• Conditions resulting in the patient receiving hospice or palliative care
• Autism spectrum disorders
• Any condition the physician “considers debilitating to an individual patient”

Is Weed Legal in Maine?

Yes, marijuana use for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted in the state of Maine.

Medical cannabis was legalized in 2009 and recreational was legalized in in 2019, although in 1999 Maine passed a law allowing patients to grow their own medical cannabis at home.

Is Weed Legal In Maryland?

Yes, the use of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes is permitted in the state of Maryland.

In 2017 the medical cannabis program became active.

Recreational cannabis took effect in 2023 after voters approved a referendum in November of 2022.

Beginning on July 1, 2023, adults 21 or older can possess and consume up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products that does not exceed 750 mg THC. This amount is known as the “personal use amount.”

Is Weed Legal In Massachusetts?

Yes, marijuana use for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted in the state of Massachusetts.

According to the law, adults who are at least 21 years old are permitted to possess up to one ounce of cannabis in public and up to 10 ounces in their own homes.

Regarding the cultivation of cannabis, citizens of the state of Massachusetts are permitted to cultivate up to six plants for personal use per individual, with a maximum of 12 plants per household.

Yet, in order to obtain a license from the Cannabis Control Commission, one must engage in cannabis cultivation for commercial purposes (CCC).

The Cannabis Control Commission is responsible for regulating the whole cannabis business, from licensing and inspections to compliance and enforcement.

Is Weed Legal In Michigan?

Medical marijuana was legalized in 2008, and recreational cannabis became legal in 2018.

Michigan has some of the most lax cannabis laws in the country.

Residents can grow up to 12 plants at home.

Is Weed Legal In Minnesota?

The Minnesota Department of Health oversees the state's 2014-established medical cannabis program.

In 2023, Minnesota legalized cannabis for recreational use by adults 21 and older.

In public, adults are permitted to carry up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower and up to 8 grams of concentrates.

Is Weed Legal In Mississippi?

Yes, marijuana is authorized for medical purposes in Mississippi.

Mississippi does not have a recreational cannabis program in place.

The Mississippi State Department of Health is in charge of overseeing the state's medicinal cannabis program, which was founded in 2020 (MSDH).

Dispensaries with a license can sell medical marijuana. At any given moment, patients are permitted to possess up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis and up to 2.5 ounces of dried cannabis flower.

Is Weed Legal in Missouri?

Yes, marijuana is allowed in Missouri for both recreational and medicinal purposes.

Established in 2018, Missouri's medical cannabis program is overseen by the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).

Patients can apply online or by mail for a medicinal cannabis patient card once they have been certified.

Dispensaries with a license can sell medical marijuana. At any given moment, patients are permitted to possess up to 8 grams of concentrates and 6 ounces of cannabis flower.

Adults 21 and older are allowed to use marijuana recreationally in Missouri.

In public, adults are permitted to carry up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower and up to 8 grams of concentrates.

Adults are also permitted to have up to 6 ounces of cannabis flower and 750 mg of THC in edibles in their home.

Is Weed Legal In Montana?

Medical and recreational cannabis are legal in Montana.

Montana legalized medical cannabis in 2004.

Montana voters approved Initiative 190 in November 2020, legalizing recreational cannabis for adults aged 21 and over. Possession and use became legal on January 1, 2021, with retail sales commencing on January 1, 2022, in counties that supported the initiative.

Is Weed Legal In Nebraska?

No, the usage of marijuana in Nebraska for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law in Nebraska.

Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

But, there are bills in place that could change this.

Is Weed Legal in Nevada?

In Nevada, the use of marijuana for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted.

Medical cannabis was legalized in Nevada in 2000. ​

​Nevada voters approved recreational cannabis legalization in November 2016 via Ballot Question 2. 

The law took effect on January 1, 2017, allowing adults 21 and over to possess and consume cannabis. 

Retail sales began on July 1, 2017, following regulatory approval from the Nevada Department of Taxation.

Is Weed Legal in New Hampshire?

Weed is only legal for medicinal purposes in New Hampshire.

Recreational use is illegal, but possession of up to three-quarters of an ounce of cannabis is decriminalized.

Is Weed Legal In New Jersey?

Yes, the use of marijuana for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted in the state of New Jersey. Cannabis delivery in New Jersey is also available.

Is Weed Legal In New Mexico?

Absolutely, the usage of marijuana in New Mexico for both medicinal purposes and for recreational purposes is now legal.

Is Weed Legal In New York?

Yes, it is legal to consume cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes in New York.

The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is responsible for regulating the medicinal cannabis program in New York, which was founded in 2014.

Patients must have one of the following qualifying medical conditions in order to be eligible for the program:

Cancer
Chronic pain
Crohn's illness
seizures
Insomnia
AIDS/HIV
inflammation of the intestines
Several sclerosis
skeletal dystrophy
OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder
Parkinson's
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder
Extreme and ongoing nausea
Spinal cord damage
Tourette Syndrome
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

In order to obtain a medical cannabis card in New York, it is necessary to first schedule an appointment with a registered medical cannabis physician. 

For those 21 years of age and older, cannabis is legal in New York for recreational use.

In public, adults are permitted to carry up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis and up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower. Adults are also permitted to have up to 6 ounces of cannabis flower and 750 mg of THC in edibles in their home.

Retailers with licenses can sell cannabis for recreational use.

Is Weed Legal in North Carolina?

No, the use of marijuana for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law in North Carolina. Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

North Carolina is one of the worst US states for cannabis laws and needs an overhaul in who is in office.

Is Weed Legal in North Dakota?

Yes, weed is legal medically in North Dakota, but recreational use is not.

North Dakota's medical cannabis program was established in 2016 and is regulated by the North Dakota Department of Health (NDDoH).

To qualify for the program, patients must have one of the following qualifying medical conditions:

• Cancer
• Severe and persistent nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy
• Multiple sclerosis
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Parkinson's disease
• Crohn's disease
• Epilepsy
• Seizures
• Severe and persistent muscle spasms
• Glaucoma
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Intractable pain
• Medical documentation of a condition that is comparable to the following conditions in terms of the intensity and duration of pain, debilitation, or refractory nature of the condition: cancer, multiple sclerosis, ALS, Parkinson's disease, Crohn's disease, epilepsy, seizures

Patients must also be certified by a licensed physician. Once certified, patients can apply for a medical marijuana registry identification card online.

Medical cannabis can be purchased from licensed dispensaries. Patients are allowed to possess up to 3 ounces of dried cannabis flower and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis at any given time.

Is Weed Legal In Ohio?

Yes, the use of marijuana for medical purposes is permitted in the state of Ohio, and recreational cannabis passed in Ohio as well. Recreational cannabis sales started on August 6th, 2024.

Is Weed legal In Oklahoma?

Yes, marijuana is permitted for medical purposes in Oklahoma. Recreational cannabis is still illegal in Oklahoma.

Oregon

In Oregon, the use of marijuana for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted.

Is Weed Legal In Pennsylvania?

Yes, marijuana is legal for medical use in Pennsylvania. Nonetheless, using marijuana for recreational purposes is still against the law.

Is Weed Legal in Rhode Island?

Yes, the use of marijuana for both medicinal purposes and for recreational purposes is permitted in Rhode Island.

On May 25, 2022, Rhode Island became the 19th state to legalize adult-use cannabis after Governor Daniel McKee signed the “Rhode Island Cannabis Act” into law. Just one day earlier, the state’s General Assembly passed the bill. 

Is Weed Legal in South Carolina?

No, the use of marijuana for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law in South Carolina. Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

Is Weed Legal in South Dakota?

Yes, the use of marijuana for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is legal in South Dakota.

Is Weed Legal in Tennessee?

Tennessee has not legalized recreational or comprehensive medical cannabis use. However, there are limited provisions for low-THC cannabis oil under specific medical conditions. 

Recent legislative efforts aim to expand cannabis access, but no significant reforms have been enacted.

Is Weed Legal in Texas?

Texas has not legalized recreational cannabis, and its medical cannabis program remains highly limited.

Established in 2015, the CUP allows patients with specific conditions to access low-THC cannabis (not exceeding 1% THC by weight). ​

Is Weed Legal in Utah?

Yes, marijuana is permitted for medical purposes in Utah.

Using marijuana for recreational purposes is still against the law.

Utah’s medical cannabis program allows qualifying patients to use medical marijuana.

Is Weed Legal in Vermont?

Yes, marijuana use for medicinal purposes as well as for recreational purposes is permitted in Vermont.

Vermont joined other recreational states in 2018.

Is Weed Legal in Virginia?

Yes, marijuana use for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is legal in the state of Virginia.

In July of 2021 Virginia legalized home cultivation and possession of cannabis but they still have not started recreational cannabis sales.

Despite legislative efforts, Virginia has not established a regulated market for recreational cannabis sales. 

Governor Glenn Youngkin has vetoed multiple bills aimed at creating such a market, citing health and safety concerns.

Is Weed Legal in Washington?

Yes, marijuana use for medical purposes as well as for recreational purposes is legal in the state of Washington.

Is Weed Legal in Washington D.C?

Yes, cannabis is legal for both recreational and medical use. Despite being legal, weed isn't so easy to come by in the country's capital.

The sale of recreational cannabis remains prohibited due to federal restrictions.

Washington D.C. voters approved Initiative 71 in 2014 to legalize the recreational use of cannabis.

After passing with a 64.87 percent approval rate, the bill went into effect on February 26, 2015.

The law states that adults over 21 years of age can have up to two ounces of cannabis.

Adults can grow up to three mature and three immature plants at home. Adults can transfer up to one ounce of pot to another person.

Is Weed Legal in West Virginia?

The use of marijuana for medicinal purposes is permitted in West Virginia. Nonetheless, using marijuana for recreational purposes is still against the law.

Is Weed Legal in Wisconsin?

No, the usage of marijuana in Wisconsin for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law in Wisconsin. Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

Is Weed Legal in Wyoming?

No, the usage of marijuana in Wyoming for either medical or recreational purposes is against the law in Wyoming.

Marijuana possession, regardless of quantity, is considered a criminal violation.

Conclusion on Cannabis Legalization Across the United States

As cannabis laws continue to evolve across the U.S., staying informed is key—what’s illegal today could be fully legal tomorrow.

Fred Hernandez

Fred Hernandez is a highly accomplished and versatile writer, boasting an extensive background in the cannabis industry. With an in-depth understanding of various sectors including cultivators, processors, retailers, and brands, Fred's expertise spans across the entire cannabis landscape. As a prominent contributor to CTU, he consistently delivers insightful articles exploring the latest developments, news, and regulations shaping the cannabis industry. Whether it's delving into the intricacies of cannabis products, cannabis strain reviews, or providing comprehensive analyses of cannabis laws, or sharing expert insights on cannabis cultivation techniques, Fred's wealth of knowledge positions him as an invaluable writer and educator for all cannabis-related subjects.