How much weed can you legally possess in California? Here’s a refresher on the law

California legalized recreational cannabis use in 2018 — and years later the state had nearly 800 dispensaries, according to Statistica, a market consumer data website.

How much marijuana can you legally hold in California? Here are the rules for personal use:

Who can buy weed in California?

Recreational:

You must be 21 years or older to buy recreational cannabis.

Medical:

You must be at least 18 years old and have a physician’s recommendation and a medical card to buy medicinal cannabis, or be a qualified caregiver.

Minors can apply but need parental permission.

How much weed is it legal to possess?

Recreational:

Those 21 and older can legally possess 28.5 grams of flower or no more than eight grams of concentrated cannabis. You can also grow up to six plants for personal use.

Medical:

According to the California Department of Public Health, a patient or caregiver is allowed to hold no more than eight ounces of dried cannabis, unless your doctor specifies otherwise.

Marijuana medical card holders are also allowed to have six “mature” or 12 “immature” plants.

What’s the penalty for breaking this law?

Any person over 18 who is holding more than the legal amount in California will be subject to jail time of up to six months or can be fined $500.

This story was originally published February 27, 2023 at 6:00 AM with the headline "How much weed can you legally possess in California? Here’s a refresher on the law."