Puff, Puff, Pass the Law: A Guide to Buying Cannabis Legally in Washington, D.C.
Welcome cannabis enthusiasts! If you find yourself in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., you might be wondering where to legally satisfy your green cravings. Fear not, for we’ve got you covered! This friendly guide will take you on a fun-filled journey through the legal ins and outs of buying cannabis in our vibrant city.
First things first: let’s clear up some confusion. Despite popular belief, recreational marijuana use is legal in Washington, D.C., thanks to Initiative 71, passed in 2014. However, it’s essential to remember that while possession and home-grown cultivation are permitted for adults aged 21 and over, sales of cannabis products are still illegal. So, where can you get your hands on some top-shelf flower or tasty edibles?
Enter the District’s licensed cannabis retailers, also known as Adult-Use Retailers (AURs). These establishments opened their doors to patrons in 2013, thanks to Initiative 57, which established a framework for medical marijuana dispensaries. To visit an AUR, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid government-issued ID (no D.C.-specific IDs are needed – driver’s licenses or passports will do just fine).
To find your nearest AUR, simply head to the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration’s (ABRA) website, where you can locate authorized retailers based on their location. Remember, only adults 21 and over are allowed inside these establishments, so leave the little ones at home!
Now that you know where to go, let’s talk about what you can buy. As a recreational consumer in D.C., you’re entitled to purchase up to one ounce (28 grams) of cannabis flower, five grams of cannabis concentrate, and 600 milligrams of THC in infused products per day. If you want to grow your own plants at home, Initiative 71 allows for the cultivation of up to six cannabis plants per household, but remember: these must be grown out of public view!
Before visiting an AUR, it’s crucial to understand the rules surrounding consumption in Washington, D.C. Smoking or vaping cannabis is prohibited in all public spaces, including parks, restaurants, bars, and on federal property. You can consume cannabis at home, but be mindful of your neighbors and follow any applicable rules within your rental agreement or homeowners association.
D.C.’s cannabis market continues to evolve as the city navigates the complexities of legalization, and the landscape is constantly changing. To stay informed about new retailers, products, and regulations, be sure to follow your favorite local dispensaries on social media, sign up for newsletters, or join relevant online communities.
Visiting Washington, D.C., and want to indulge in some legal cannabis? We hope this guide has helped you navigate the world of adult-use retailers and provided a friendly introduction to our city’s green scene. Remember, always consume responsibly, respect your fellow citizens, and have a fantastic time exploring all that Washington, D.C., has to offer!