Is Weed Legal In Virginia In 2023? Virginia Cannabis Laws Explained

Virginia is one of the latest states to legalize marijuana for recreational use. On July 1, 2021, Virginia became the first state in the South to legalize marijuana for adults 21 and over.

Under Virginia law, adults can possess up to one ounce of marijuana, or 5 grams of marijuana concentrate, in public. They can also grow up to four marijuana plants for personal use at home.

Recreational marijuana sales are not yet legal in Virginia, but the state is expected to launch a retail sales program in 2024.

Virginia Marijuana Laws in Detail

Possession

Adults 21 and over in Virginia can legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana, or 5 grams of marijuana concentrate, in public.
It is illegal to possess marijuana in a motor vehicle or while operating heavy machinery or equipment.
It is also illegal to possess marijuana on school property or at any other place where children are present.
Possession of more than one ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

Cultivation

Adults 21 and over in Virginia can legally grow up to four marijuana plants for personal use at home.
The plants must be kept indoors and out of public view.
It is illegal to sell or give away marijuana that you have cultivated yourself.
Cultivation of more than four marijuana plants is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

Purchase

Recreational marijuana sales are not yet legal in Virginia, but the state is expected to launch a retail sales program in 2024.
When recreational marijuana sales do begin, adults 21 and over will be able to purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries throughout the state.
Dispensaries will be required to test all of their products for potency and purity, and to provide customers with information about the different types of marijuana available and their potential effects.

Use

It is legal to consume marijuana in private residences and on private property with the permission of the property owner.
It is illegal to consume marijuana in public places, such as parks, streets, and businesses.
It is also illegal to consume marijuana in a motor vehicle or while operating heavy machinery or equipment.

Other Important Facts

It is illegal to transport marijuana across state lines.
It is illegal to give or sell marijuana to minors.
It is illegal to consume marijuana in the workplace, even if your employer has a policy that allows it.
It is illegal to operate heavy machinery or equipment while under the influence of marijuana.

Penalties

Possession of more than one ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
Cultivation of more than four marijuana plants is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
Sale or distribution of marijuana is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

Conclusion

Virginia’s marijuana laws are still evolving, but the state is moving towards legalization. Recreational marijuana sales are expected to begin in 2024, and adults 21 and over will be able to legally possess, cultivate, and use marijuana.

The legalization of marijuana in Virginia is a significant step forward for the state. It will create jobs, generate tax revenue, and provide adults with the freedom to choose whether or not to use marijuana.

However, it is important to note that there are still some restrictions in place under Virginia’s marijuana laws. It is illegal to consume marijuana in public places, such as parks, streets, and businesses. It is also illegal to possess more than one ounce of marijuana or to cultivate more than four marijuana plants.