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In recent years, the weed legalization in DC has been a popular topic of discussion across the United States. One question that comes up frequently: is weed is legal in Washington DC?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. In 2014, Washington DC passed Initiative 71, which legalized the possession and use of small amounts of marijuana for adults 21 and older. However, it is important to note that selling, buying, or even gifting weed in exchange for money is still illegal in the DMV.
This means any 21+ can possess cannabis and smoke it in their own home - but how do you get this weed to legally possess and smoke? You shop with us as a Medical Cannabis Patient! Although you cannot buy recreational weed in DC, anyone 21+ can self-certify to become a medical cannabis patient and buy medical cannabis legally.
Although there are still some grey areas you might want to look out for. This DC Weed Legalization guide was curated to help you pin-point these grey areas. So don't stop! Continue reading because you don't get caught up in a tangle of legal red tape in the Nation's capital.
Recreational Weed Law in DC
One of the most important things to note is that Initiative 71 only legalized the possession, use, and cultivation of marijuana for individual recreational purposes.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For instance, medical marijuana patients can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries with a valid medical card. Additionally, individuals can gift up to one ounce of weed to another adult as long as no money changes hands.
It's also essential to mention that smoking weed in public places is strictly prohibited and can lead to criminal of the first significant issues about marijuana laws is that while it's legal to have weed, it's NOT legal to buy it anywhere but at Medical Cannabis Dispensary like Aligned.
So, while both recreational and medical marijuana are legal in the Nation's Capital, the only way to legally buy cannabis is through a licensed Medical Cannabis Dispensary like Aligned. Self-certification makes it quick and easy to stay compliant with DC’s marijuana regulations.
Initiative 71
Initiative 71, a voter-approved ballot initiative, legalized weed possession, use, and cultivation for personal recreational purposes for adults aged 21 and over in DC. However, it did not legalize the sale or distribution of cannabis unless conducted through the medical marijuana program with a valid medical card.
What is so special about Initiative 71? Thanks to this fantastic new law, the decriminalization of marijuana was passed by the legislature in 2014. Among other perks, i71 reduced the penalty for possession of up to one ounce of marijuana to $25. How dope is that?
Thanks to Initiative 71, it is legal for adults 21 years of age or older without a Medical Cannabis Card to:
Possess two ounces or less of marijuana
Grow within their primary residence up to six marijuana plants, no more than three cannabis plant of which are mature
Transfer one ounce or less of weed to another person as long as: (1) no money, goods, or services are exchanged; and (2) the recipient is 21 years of age or older
Consume weed on private property
Medical Cannabis Laws Information
The Medical Marijuana Self-Certification Emergency Amendment Act of 2022 was signed into law over the summer of 2022 to authorize temporary registrations and self-certification by DC residents at least 21 years of age and older. In the Fall, the bill was expanded to include non-DC residents as well. Which means that anyone 21+ can self-certify within minutes to receive the necessary registration to begin shopping at Aligned.
The same year, DC Council passed the The Medical Cannabis Amendment Act of 2022 that increased possession limits for medical cannabis patients to 8 ounces. So as long as you are a registered medical cannabis patient in DC you can legally possess up to 8 ounces of cannabis at a time.
DC also passed a law in 2022 to protect employees called the Cannabis Employment Protections Amendment Act of 2022. This law states that No employer can refuse to hire, fire, suspend, or reprimand you based solely upon having a medical card or your medical cannabis use. There are exclusions for saftey sensitive and security jobs, but in many cases having a Medical Cannabis Card may offer you more protection.
Unlike states like California or Nevada, Washington D.C. operates under unique cannabis laws. If you're looking for quality cannabis products in the nation's capital, Aligned DC is your go-to destination.
At Aligned DC, we offer a range of premium cannabis products, including edibles, flower, concentrates, and more. Our team is dedicated to providing a seamless experience for both D.C. residents and visitors, ensuring that every purchase is safe and legal.
Before Your Visit: Please bring your Government ID and a temporary or permanent Medical Cannabis Card. If you don't have a Medical Cannabis Card you can sign up here! We can also get you signed up in store.
We're happy to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Contact us via phone, email, or WhatsApp to speak to one of our knowledgeable team members.
We are excited to announce that we now accept credit and debit card payments for purchases of $50 or more, making your shopping experience even more convenient!
Rated Top Cannabis Store in the DMV Area
With over 2000+ verified Google reviews, here's what some of our happy customers have to say:
"My first time coming to Washington D.C. and I found this place on Google. Got there and met Will who was awesome, explained everything to me and made it a great experience. Will definitely return" – Marley Bae (★ 5/5)
"On a recent trip to District of Columbia I visited several dispensaries and Top Level was the last shop I went in. It was by far the best. Everyone working was helpful, nice, knowledgeable, and they didn’t look down on me for not having a clue as to what I was doing. I will definitely be visiting Top Level again very soon. 5 Stars All the way around." – Jonathan Long (★ 5/5)
Medical Cannabis Laws
Medical marijuana laws have a complicated history in the District of Columbia. It was first legalized in 1998 but faced delays due to the Barr Amendment. This amendment prohibited the use of funds to support a medical cannabis program. However, it was overturned in 2009, allowing for legal medical cannabis purchases. In 2013, medical cannabis sales started occurring in D.C., and now, thanks to legislation passed in 2022, anyone 21+ can self-certify for a Medical Cannabis Card for $10 or less and purchase up to 8 ounces of medical cannabis.
For those wondering how to legally buy cannabis in DC, self-certification is the answer. Here’s how it works:
Medical Cannabis Self-Certification for DC Residents
DC residents can apply for a medical cannabis card through a simple, free self-certification process. Once approved, the card is valid for up to 6 years, making it a convenient and long-term solution.
Here's what you'll need:
Complete an online form through the DC Department of Health website.
Submit proof of DC residency, such as:
DC driver’s license.
Government-issued ID and utility bill.
Upload a clear photo of your face.
If you’re enrolled in Medicaid or DC Alliance, upload documentation to receive a discount.
Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a temporary card within 10 minutes, valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being processed. You can use the temporary card to shop at Aligned immediately.
Medical Cannabis Access for Non-DC Residents
Visitors from reciprocity states with valid medical cannabis cards can also legally purchase cannabis in DC. If you’re eligible, follow these steps to get started:
Fill out an online form with your details.
Upload:
A photo of your face.
A copy of your medical cannabis card and government-issued ID.
Select the duration of your temporary medical card:
3 days: $10
30 days: $20
90 days: $50
180 days: $75
365 days: $100
Pay the corresponding fee and receive your temporary card or receipt within minutes.
This entire process can be completed in as little as 10 minutes, giving you quick and easy access to medical cannabis in compliance with DC laws.
Conclusion on Weed Legalization in DC
So is weed legal in Washington DC? Long answer short, yes and no. While it is legal to recreationally possess up to two ounces of marijuana in DC for personal use, it is still illegal under federal law. However, those with a valid medical marijuana card can purchase and use cannabis products for medical purposes and possess up to 8 ounces without fear of legal repercussions. It's important to note that using cannabis in public spaces, driving under the influence, and selling marijuana without a license are all illegal actions in D.C. So while weed may be legal to an extent in D.C., it's important to follow the Weed Legalization in DC rules and regulations set forth by the city to avoid any trouble story, short – Yes. Despite all the loopholes surrounding the marijuana laws, People can still be arrested for crimes related to marijuana. It's one of the reasons people are still asking, "Is weed legal in DC?"
Weed Law in DC Reminder #1: Possession of two (2) ounces amount of marijuana in DC is considered legal, but you can still be arrested if you have more than that or get caught selling marijuana. Unless you have a Medical Cannabis Card and then you can possess up to 8 ounces, but you still may not sell it.
Weed Law in DC Reminder #2: Washington D.C. allows you to consume THC marijuana on private property, i.e., in the comfort of your home. Public consumption of weed is considered illegal and a criminal act. Marijuana possession on federal land is also prohibited as marijuana in DC is deemed to be illegal at the national level. As such, federal authorities can still arrest people for possession of marijuana at any amount or cannabis use on federal lands.
Questions on DC Weed Legalization:
Is weed legal in Washington DC?
Yes! Both recreational and medical weed are legal in Washington, DC. However, the purchase of weed for recreational purposes is not allowed. In order to legally purchase cannabis you must obtain a Medical Cannabis Card and shop with a Medical Dispensary such as Aligned.
Is It Legal to Smoke Weed in DC?
No, it is illegal to smoke marijuana in public in Washington D.C. However, adults over 21 can legally possess and consume marijuana on private property. As can medical cannabis patients. It is also illegal to possess marijuana on federal land, which includes many popular tourist attractions in DMV.
You need to take note of the fact that marijuana use in a public space. may result in a misdemeanor conviction of up to 60 days of jail time and a fine of up to $500 from law enforcement. Offenders may choose to go to court alternatively in line with the mayor's office's 2018 policy recommendations.
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