Where Cannabis is Legal: Understanding Legality in the United States and Its Territories, Districts, and Tribes

The United States is coming around the bend on unanimously legalizing cannabis for medical and/or recreational use. It is moving slowly, but also surely making ground. Most of the focus here has been on Washington, DC and Virginia, which are still important stepping stones. Being a native of Virginia, I thought I’d never see the day. Considering, however, that legalization as well as this site, continue to expand, it’s going to be necessary to know where you’re safe to use marijuana. This blog looks at all 50 states, as well as a few territories and tribes, so you have the information on where cannabis is legal, legal for medical use, or still a punishable offense.

Where is Cannabis Legal for Recreational Use

18 states, one district, two territories, and six Indigenous-American tribes have adopted fully legal, recreational and medical-use legislation for marijuana and marijuana products. As a result, certain states allow you to transport more legally, some allow you to store more, legally. Either way, this progress is remarkable for our country. What’s also interesting is that there does not seem to be a regional trend in acceptance of legal marijuana-use legislation, which shows that progress is being made all over the country, instead of one specific area or region (with the exception of the west coast). Another indicator that we can move towards legalizing, or at least decriminalization, across the country.

The following tables highlight where, in the US, marijuana is fully legal for recreational and medical use. They also indicate, if applicable, the limits of marijuana and marijuana products you can legally transport and/or possess.

States where cannabis is legal

Districts, Territories, and Tribal Nations where cannabis is legal

Where is Cannabis Decriminalized and/or Legal for Medical Use

Being on the same page is something we’re definitely having difficulty with in the US at this current moment. With that being said, while every state hasn’t adopted full legalization of marijuana, many states have come to a consensus that individuals battling severe illnesses and conditions should be able to partake in marijuana and marijuana products as a way to manage and/or treat these situations. The following tables indicate where marijuana is legal for medical use primarily. Some of these states have opted to decriminalize small amounts, and that is noted in these tables as well. 

North Carolina has been added to this list. While medical use isn’t legal (except in the case of CBD oil) it is still notable that they’ve decriminalized possession up to 1.5 oz .

States where cannabis is legal for medical use

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Territories where cannabis is legal for medical use

Where Cannabis is still 100% Illegal

Still, of course, there always has to be someone on the opposing end. These final tables show the states and territories that continue to criminalize and punish cannabis use (in some cases rather harshly). Having been a victim, several times, of pre-legalization criminal charges in Virginia however, I’m very happy to see the day that I didn’t have to add my home state to this list. Hopefully, these states will come around to, at minimum, legalization for medical use. We, as a nation, have suffered, including some more than others. Denying Americans the right to alleviate suffering, in my opinion, alienates our inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Ideally, these states will realize this one day, and act accordingly. 

States where cannabis is illegal

Territories where cannabis is illegal

In Conclusion

Whether you’re moving, traveling, or just learning, this guide brings together a comprehensive list of places in, and associated with, the US where it’s safe for you to enjoy cannabis. Knowing your rights are important, and that includes knowing the law. If you’re out there on the front lines lobbying for change, we applaud and thank you for your determination. Maybe you’re in a state where medical use is permitted, we hope that you are getting the best care possible from your local vendors. If you’re in a state where recreational use is legal, I encourage you to go out and exercise your right, preferably in spliff form!