Is Weed Legal In Maryland? Maryland Marijuana Laws [2023]

Is weed legal in Maryland? The Old Line State has a robust legal system. It accommodates both medical and recreational weed users, but this wasn’t always the case.

For almost a decade, medical consumers enjoyed exclusive privileges in Maryland. With the progressive reforms of 2023, we’re experiencing a shift in the legal landscape. The relaxed laws now cater to recreational users, creating a well-balanced legal marijuana framework.

The road to this significant milestone was a challenging, action-packed adventure. This isn’t just in Maryland, but also across other states in the US.

While recreational and medical marijuana is legal in Maryland, respect for the law is key. It’s crucial to adhere to the relevant laws when buying, growing, or consuming marijuana. Join us to explore everything you need to know about Maryland marijuana laws.

Long story short: Is weed legal in Maryland?

Are you a resident of Maryland with a penchant for marijuana? It’s important to know your legal limits and act within them. 

In 2014, the state legalized marijuana, but only for medical use.

Maryland marijuana laws have become more liberal. The privileges of use and possession aren’t limited to medicinal consumers anymore. 2023 ushered in a new era that extends to recreational users.

Here’s a quick rundown of the current legal framework for cannabis in Maryland:

Maryland marijuana laws in detail

Maryland is among the states where weed is legal for both recreational and medical use. The path to these commendable marijuana weed laws and reforms was turbulent and long.

Prior to the development, Maryland was a state plagued by cannabis use challenges. It recorded the fourth-highest possession arrest rate per capita in 2010. This was a whopping 50% of all drug-related arrests in the country.

Maryland’s first attempt at legalizing cannabis was in 2014. It took seven years for policymakers to extend the grace to recreational users.

Medical marijuana laws in Maryland

The 2014 House Bill 881 marked the start of legalized medical cannabis. In 2016, SB0517 was passed, further relaxing the laws.

The legality of medical marijuana in Maryland is restricted to specific individuals. Fulfilling these conditions qualifies you under the medical marijuana laws in Maryland:

• Be a Maryland resident.

• Register with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC).

• Get a written certification from a health provider registered with the MMCC.

• Visit a licensed dispensary in the state to buy your legal cannabis.

You must be 18 years or above to register with the commission. In the case of minors (under 18), at least one caregiver is required. They must be a legal guardian of 21 years or older, registered with the MMCC.

A qualifying medical condition is needed to be eligible for a written certification. The legally endorsed medical conditions are:

• Cachexia

• Anorexia

• Wasting syndrome

• Severe or chronic pain

• Severe nausea

• Seizures

• Severe or persistent muscle spasms

• Glaucoma

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Any other chronic medical condition for which other treatments have been unsuccessful.

Is recreational marijuana legal in Maryland?

Recreational marijuana is legal in Maryland. The Chesapeake State is the 21st state to legalize marijuana for this purpose.

Under the law, only adults aged 21 or older may enjoy these privileges. From July 1st, 2023, these benefits include the use, purchase, growing, and possession of marijuana.

Eligible individuals can possess up to 1.5 ounces of flower. The Maryland weed law permits possession of up to 12 grams of concentrates. You can own edible products not exceeding 750 mg delta-9-THC. The law prohibits tokers from sharing weed with anyone under 21.

Is CBD legal in Maryland?

Hemp-derived CBD is legal in Maryland if the THC content is less than 0.3%. Food and beverages infused with CBD are subject to certain restrictions and regulations.

Before the 2018 Farm Bill, Maryland cannabis laws were ahead of the curve. The Cockade State already made legislation legalizing industrial hemp. The Farm Bill further cemented these state laws. It legalized the growing, production, and sale of hemp-based CBD products federally.

Is hemp oil legal in Maryland? 

Industrial hemp and hemp-derived products are legal. This law applies to all the states in the USA, including Maryland. It may only be compromised where state legislation is on the contrary.

The local marijuana law in Maryland deems hemp oil as legal. You can buy hemp oil just as you would any regular non-hemp product. 

Is it possible to buy legal marijuana in Maryland?

It’s possible to buy legal weed for both recreational and medical purposes. Individuals aged 21 or more can buy recreational weed in the Old Line State.

Weed laws in Marijuana in 2023 allow you to purchase from licensed dispensaries only. Personal use purchases come with the following limits:

• Up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana flower (pre-rolls and joints included)

• Up to 12 grams of marijuana concentrates (including vape products)

• A total amount of cannabis products with no more than 750 mg delta-9-THC

You don’t need a medical marijuana certification to buy recreational pot. Present a valid government-issued ID card at the dispensary for proof of age.

For medical marijuana purchases, a written certification remains a necessity. The age requirement within the current parameters is 18. 

Under the medical cannabis program, only certified and MMCC-registered residents can make purchases. As a recreational buyer, you don’t need to be a resident to buy cannabis. Interstate movement of cannabis is illegal under federal laws. 

Maryland laws on weed impose a 9% sales tax on all weed products. 

Can you grow your own according to Maryland cannabis laws?

Would you like to plant cannabis seeds and grow your own crops? Maryland affords you this opportunity, thanks to the July 1, 2023 legislation.

Maryland marijuana laws in 2023 permit adults from age 21 to cultivate marijuana. The plants must be in private and out of the public eye. They must be secure to prevent access from unauthorized individuals.

You can only grow up to two cannabis plants per residence. Cultivation must be on property owned by the grower or with their approval. You can easily obtain cannabis seeds in Maryland. Order from a reputable store and start growing your own cannabis plants.

Is it legal to smoke weed in Maryland?

While cannabis is legal in Maryland, there are restrictions on smoking. The applicable laws prohibit smoking in public spaces, which include:

• Parks

• Streets

• Sidewalks

• Bars and restaurants

• Public transportation

• Workplaces

Violation of this law is a civil offense that attracts a penalty. The legislation also prohibits drivers from smoking marijuana in motor vehicles. Smoking it on federal property is illegal, including national parks and federal buildings.

MD marijuana laws authorize municipalities and counties to license on-site consumption establishments. These areas create an avenue for legal out-of-home consumption. With a valid license, they can operate outdoor premises for smoking and vaping.

The county or municipality may further regulate the activities of the on-site consumption establishments. They can limit how and when marijuana may be consumed at these places.

Key takeaways about Maryland weed laws

It’s a delight that medical and recreational marijuana is legal in Maryland today. The journey to this landmark moment wasn’t an easy one. It was tumultuous and tiresome, with several hiccups on the road.

Residents of the Old Line State can now relish the perks of their patience. The legislation that came into effect on July 1st, 2023, was a significant turning point. It introduced a dispensation of legal cannabis that benefits recreational users.

While weed is legal in Maryland, it’s vital to make purchases from credible stores. 

Homegrown Cannabis Co. is the best online shop for premium cannabis seeds. We have top-shelf strains sourced from different locations worldwide. You can also find important information and tips about cannabis in our blog updates.