Laws in MD: Is It Legal to Grow Cannabis in Maryland?

In Maryland, things are changing up in the world of cannabis cultivation. Now, citizens can roll up their sleeves and grow their own marijuana at home, plus make personal purchases. Thanks to some recent rule tweaks, it's like opening a door to a whole new world for residents.

So, if you've ever fancied trying your hand at nurturing your own cannabis plant, now's the time to dive in and discover the therapeutic benefits and pure fun of home growing!

Is Cannabis Legal in Maryland?

Recreational Marijuana in Maryland

Marijuana laws in Maryland took a significant step forward with the legalization of recreational marijuana sales on July 1, 2023. Now, adults aged 21 and older can purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries without the need for a medical card. However, there are specific limits in place: individuals can possess up to 1.5 ounces of flower or 12 grams of concentrated marijuana per transaction, with a cap of 750 milligrams of THC.

Penalties are enforced for possession exceeding these limits: civil penalties are applied for possession between 1.5 and 2.5 ounces, while criminal charges come into play for amounts exceeding 2.5 ounces.

Medical Marijuana in Maryland

It's important to note that medical marijuana regulations in Maryland remain intact. Those aged 18 and above are eligible to apply for a medical card, enabling access to medical marijuana products. Minors can also register as legal patients for medical marijuana use, although recreational use is strictly prohibited for this age group.

Growing Marijuana in Maryland

Hey abby grower growing marijuana at home

growing 2 marijuana plants with Hey abby grow box: @Wiccn

In Maryland, regulations allow for the cultivation of marijuana plants within private residences under certain conditions. Individuals aged 21 and older, as well as households with two or more adults over 21, are permitted to grow up to 2 marijuana plants each, provided that the plants are not visible from public areas.

An exception is made for households with medical patients, who are allowed to cultivate up to 4 plants in their homes.

Growing cannabis in open gardens near windows or roads is not advisable due to privacy and security concerns. Instead, it's recommended to keep plants in a secure, locked space within your residence.

If you're new to growing cannabis at home, consider investing in an automated stealth cannabis growing system like Hey abby. This innovative system provides your plants with 24/7 automated climate control and comes equipped with a child lock to keep your growing discreet. The grow cabinet arrives pre-assembled with everything you need, including lights and a ventilation system, saving you the hassle of sourcing them yourself.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grower, Hey abby caters to all levels of expertise, offering convenience, security, and optimal growing conditions for your growing.

Image via Hey abby grower @Croaker

How to Get Cannabis Products in Maryland?

The process of obtaining cannabis products in Maryland has evolved significantly. Initially, existing medical dispensaries were the first to venture into selling marijuana to recreational consumers. By transitioning their medical licenses to adult-use licenses, these dispensaries gained authorization to sell recreational marijuana.

As of now, Maryland boasts a total of 102 licensed brick-and-mortar locations, providing ample accessibility for consumers. You can easily locate dispensaries near you in Maryland using the map.

Furthermore, individuals interested in entering the cannabis market as growers or sellers can apply for adult-use cannabis business licenses, but issuance of these licenses is not expected until at least January 2024. This delay allows for the establishment of a well-regulated recreational market.

When it comes to cannabis-derived products, such as edibles, vape cartridges, and cannabis-containing oils, they can all be legally purchased under the same regulations as flowers. However, these products must meet the state-set testing standards to guarantee they are free from any additives that could pose health risks if consumed.

Can I Smoke in Public?

smoking recreational marijuana in maryland

Smoking marijuana in public in Maryland is prohibited. So, you can't smoke on sidewalks, in parks, or any other outdoor hangout spots. And remember, federal places like national parks are totally off-limits for cannabis consumption.

To keep things chill and legal, it's best to enjoy your buds in private spots.

Can I Drive After Consuming Cannabis in Maryland?

It's against the law to use cannabis while driving, whether you're the one behind the wheel or just a passenger. It's all about keeping the roads safe.

If law enforcement catches wind of impaired driving due to cannabis through standard field sobriety testing (roadside test), they're authorized to make an arrest.

Can I Bring Cannabis on My Travels?

While cannabis might be legal in Maryland, it's still a no-go according to federal law when it comes to crossing state lines. It is also illegal to leave or enter Maryland with any cannabis products, whether for medical or recreational uses. Mailing cannabis in or out of the state is also strictly prohibited.