Recreational marijuana stores are open for business. Anyone 21+ is allowed to possess up to 1oz of marijuana, 7g of concentrates, 16oz of edibles or 72oz of liquid cannabis product.
For more information on Washington marijuana laws, click here.
Currently, anyone 21 years of age or older can purchase marijuana products from recreational marijuana stores. Medical marijuana can be bought from select dispensaries that add a medical endorsement to their license, which allows the shop to stock supplies relevant to medical needs, and have a consultant on site.
FAQs
Is marijuana legal in Washington?
Yes, individuals 18 years and older can possess a medical marijuana card, while those without a card must be 21 years or older to legally purchase or possess recreational cannabis. Medical marijuana cards are for Washington residents only. Medical marijuana was legalized in the state in 1998 with the passing of Initiative 692, and recreational cannabis was legalized in 2012 with the passing of Initiative 502.
What is the difference between medical and retail marijuana in Washington?
In the state of Washington, purchasing medical marijuana requires a state medical license, which is only available to Washington residents with an official written consent by a doctor. Medical marijuana patients can purchase marijuana from a primary caregiver, from a licensed dispensary or grow their own. Some differences are present in the products available, for example, medical cannabis may have higher allowable potency limits for edibles.
Additionally, recreational marijuana is available to residents and non-residents of Washington, who are 21 years old and older.
Can I get my medical marijuana card if I’m not a Washington resident?
Unfortunately, no. Medical marijuana cards are for Washington residents only.
Where can I purchase cannabis in Washington?
As of July 1, 2016, all marijuana businesses were required to be licensed by the Washington State Liquor Control Board, effectively closing down medical dispensaries. Medical marijuana dispensaries were given the chance to reapply for recreational licenses with endorsements to dispense medical cannabis to registered medical cardholders.
If you have a medical marijuana card, you are able to purchase three times the recreational limit and purchase your product from recreational locations tax-free.
How much marijuana can I buy in Washington?
Any adult 21 years and older is allowed to possess up to one ounce of cannabis flower, seven grams of concentrates, 16 ounces of cannabis-infused edibles or 72 ounces of liquid cannabis product like tinctures.
What types of marijuana are available in Washington?
There are a variety of different types of marijuana to purchase including numerous strains of flower or bud, hash, oil, edibles (candy and baked goods), drinks and more.
Always be sure to talk to your budtender about the type of marijuana that you are purchasing as different types result in different effects including energizing, head highs or full body, sedative highs.
Can I smoke marijuana in public in Washington?
No, you cannot. The laws in Washington state that consumption of cannabis is restricted to private areas only. Note that you can get a civil penalty of $100 -- or a $27 fine for public consumption in Seattle, specifically. Needless to say, because this is a very large grey area right now, please use discretion when consuming.
Can I travel with marijuana from Washington to another state or country?
No. Traveling with cannabis over state lines is 100% illegal.
What are the consequences for breaking marijuana laws in Washington?
There are numerous penalties that could be implemented if you break the law, ranging from monetary fines to community service and jail time