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Visiting a DC dispensary can be an exciting and rewarding experience. There are so many great products available that it may take a lot of work to know where to start. But before you make your way to the dispensary, there are some important things you should consider. This article will provide all the information you need to know before visiting a DC dispensary so you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
What Is A D.C. Dispensary?
A D.C. dispensary is a licensed business that dispenses medical and recreational marijuana products. The store typically offers a variety of cannabis products, including flower, concentrates, edibles, topicals, and more. They can also provide medical advice about the best strains for certain conditions.
How Washington DC Dispensaries work
All DC dispensaries are regulated by the D.C. Department of Health and must adhere to strict laws and regulations set forth by the city. This means that only certain products are permitted for sale, and each dispensary must follow specific guidelines regarding production processes, packaging, labeling, and distribution.
Additionally, DC dispensaries don't operate like usual dispensaries. In other states in the U.S., customers can walk into a dispensary and get their cannabis without the need of a physician's recommendation. But in Washington, D.C, this isn't the case– purchasers must have a valid medical marijuana card in order to enter and purchase marijuana products.
A medical marijuana card can be obtained from all 33 states with medical marijuana programs. The process costs $100 and takes about a month to complete.
Is Recreational Weed Legal in Washington, D.C.?
Cannabis is legal in Washington, DC. However, the law is much different than in other states, as it's still illegal on the federal level. This means that no D.C. dispensary can sell more than two ounces of cannabis at a time, nor can possession exceed that amount.
Now that you understand how dispensaries work, you might be wondering how one can get weed recreationally in D.C. without the need for a medical marijuana card.
What Is Initiative 71?
Initiative 71 is a voter-approved measure that allows D.C. residents to possess and cultivate marijuana for recreational use. It does not establish a legally regulated market but does make it legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to two ounces of cannabis for recreational use.
The ballot for I71 was approved by a majority of voters on 4 November 2014, going into effect on 26 February 2015. I71, or as it's more commonly known, requires D.C. cannabis enthusiasts to follow some rules, which are listed below.
In Washington, DC, you must be 21 years and over to possess weed.
You cannot smoke weed in any federal property or public space, such places including parks, military grounds, and vehicles.
Although you cannot purchase or sell cannabis recreationally in D.C., you can give or receive it as a gift. This may seem strange, but don't worry - we'll explain how this system works soon.
The I71 laws permit D.C. residents over 21 to possess up to two ounces of marijuana, grow up to three mature & three immature plants in their homes, and transfer up to one ounce of marijuana.
If you drive under the influence of marijuana, you will get arrested. This is classified as a DUI charge.
How To Get Recreational Weed In DC
Now that you know the basics of Initiative 71, where can you get recreational marijuana in D.C.? The answer to that is a bit tricky since it is illegal to purchase marijuana in D.C.
So how do people get recreational weed in D.C.?
Certain shops, known as smoke shops, have become popular as a way to get recreational cannabis in D.C. Smoke shops are retail stores that sell smoking paraphernalia and accessories, like pipes, bongs, rolling papers, and more.
So, how do you spot a good smoke shop in D.C.? Considering that there are a ton of shops that claim to work in accordance with the law, selecting the best one might be a tough task.
Smoke Shops Are Open To DC Residents & Tourists
You don't need to be a resident of D.C. or even visiting the DMV area to enjoy its fantastic weed laws. As long as you follow the rules, you're free to possess and smoke weed. The best part is that there are plenty of great smoke shops open to everyone in D.C. All you need to do is find one that suits your needs, and you'll be all set!
Getting Medical Marijuana in D.C.
You can only obtain medical marijuana from dispensaries in D.C. Unlike other places; recreational weed dispensaries do not exist here. In order to buy weed at a dispensary, you must have a medical condition and a card that proves it.
Conditions treatable with medical marijuana include;
Chronic pain
Anxiety
Depression
Glaucoma
Multiple Sclerosis
Cancer
Insomnia
Migraine
Allergies
HIV/AIDS
Getting a Medical Cannabis Card
The process of getting a medical marijuana card is quite simple. The first step is to get a recommendation from your doctor. Once you have the recommendation, you can apply for an I.D. card through the D.C. Department of Health's online portal. Once you've been approved for the card, you can go to any dispensary in D.C. and purchase medical marijuana products.
The process usually costs around $100 to $200 and can take up to four weeks!
Cannabis Conclusion
Visiting a dispensary in Washington D.C. can be a straightforward and enjoyable experience, especially if you're well-informed about the laws and what to expect. Whether you're a medical marijuana patient or exploring recreational cannabis through Initiative 71, understanding the rules and options available will help ensure a smooth experience. Remember, while recreational sales aren't available at dispensaries, there are still legal ways to access cannabis in D.C. By choosing the right smoke shop or dispensary, you can safely enjoy the best products the city has to offer.
Ready for premium cannabis products? Shop online or call us at (202) 740-6670 to place your order today. Visit us in-store at 3715 Macomb St NW Suite 201, Washington, DC 20016, or enjoy the convenience of curbside pickup. Stay connected with us on Instagram for the latest updates and tips on cannabis in Washington DC!
Note: We accept cash and now also credit/debit card payments for purchases over $50 (21+ ID required)
*Top Level is now Aligned DC. While our name has changed, our commitment to providing premium cannabis products and excellent service remains the same. Thank you for your continued support!
