Is Cannabis Legal In District of Columbia?
Marijuana is currently legal for both medical and recreational use in the District of Columbia.
Cannabis for Medical Use in District of Columbia
The District of Columbia passed legislation allowing for the use of medical marijuana in 2010. Under the district’s medical marijuana program, patients with certain qualifying medical conditions are allowed to use and possess marijuana for medicinal purposes. Eligibility for the program requires patients to obtain a written recommendation from a licensed physician and register with the district.
As of 2021, there were over 12,000 registered medical marijuana patients in the District of Columbia, and the district had licensed eight dispensaries to sell marijuana to these patients. In addition to these dispensaries, the district also allows for the operation of licensed production facilities, which are responsible for growing and processing marijuana for sale to patients.
Qualifying Conditions
Qualifying medical conditions
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- Glaucoma
- Conditions characterized by severe and persistent muscle spasms, such as multiple sclerosis
- Cancer
Qualifying medical treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Use of azidothymidine or protease inhibitors
- Radiotherapy
Recreational Use of Cannabis in District of Columbia
The District of Columbia legalized the recreational use of marijuana in 2014, making it one of the first jurisdictions in the country to do so. Under the district’s cannabis laws, individuals over the age of 21 are allowed to possess and use up to two ounces of marijuana for recreational purposes, and grow up to six plants for personal use. It is illegal to use marijuana in public or to drive under the influence of the drug.
As of 2021, the district had licensed ten dispensaries to sell recreational marijuana to individuals over the age of 21. These dispensaries are required to follow strict regulations governing the production and sale of marijuana, including rules on labeling and packaging. In addition to these dispensaries, the district also allows for the operation of licensed production facilities, which are responsible for growing and processing marijuana for sale to consumers.
Where Can I Get Cannabis in District of Columbia?
In the District of Columbia, cannabis is available at licensed dispensaries. These dispensaries are specifically licensed to sell marijuana to individuals over the age of 21 for recreational use, as well as to registered medical marijuana patients. In order to purchase cannabis at a dispensary, individuals must be over the age of 21 and show valid government-issued identification.