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Recreational Marijuana (Weed) Laws in Ohio: Everything You Need to Know

Fri 31 Jan, 2025 by General

Green rubber approval stamp representing legal recreational weed in ohio

Ohio has officially joined the growing list of states legalizing recreational marijuana, marking a significant shift in drug policy. Whether you’re curious about what this means for personal use, cultivation, or distribution, staying informed is key to navigating the new laws. From understanding what’s allowed to recognizing the legal boundaries, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about recreational weed laws in Ohio.

Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or new to the conversation, this blog will help you make sense of the dos, don’ts, and everything in between when it comes to Ohio’s approach to adult-use marijuana. Let’s dive in!

Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Ohio?

As of November 7, 2023, Ohio is the 24th state to legalize adult-use marijuana. Ohio voters overwhelmingly approved recreational weed, with 57% of voters voting in favor of Issue 2, which is also known as An Act to Control and Regulate Adult Use Cannabis. Although adult-use weed is legal in Ohio, certain marijuana-related activities are still illegal or regulated. It’s essential to be aware of the specific regulations that surround recreational sales and use. 

Ohio’s Cannabis Laws You Should Know

Here’s how to legally sell and use recreational weed in Ohio

What’s Allowed Under Ohio’s New Weed Laws?

Here’s a breakdown of what’s allowed when it comes to using and selling marijuana in Ohio under the law:

  1. You must be 21 years or older to legally consume, possess, and purchase cannabis from a licensed Ohio dispensary, which means you can’t get weed from anywhere.
  2. Ohio put in place a possession limit of 2.5 ounces of adult-use cannabis or 15 grams of concentrates. Customers can buy up to 2.5 ounces daily from a licensed adult-use dispensary. 
  3. Individuals are allowed to grow up to six plants for personal use, with a limit of 12 plants per place of residence.
  4. There aren’t any limits on how Ohioans over the age of 21 may consume marijuana (e.g., smoking, edibles, vaping, etc.). 
  5. An individual can gift up to six marijuana plants without compensation, along with up to 2.5 ounces of adult-use cannabis in any form other than extract and up to 15 grams of adult-use cannabis in extract form.
  6. Medical marijuana cardholders are still able to purchase their medication through licensed medical cannabis dispensaries.

What’s Off Limits for Ohioans & Recreational Marijuana?

Here’s what’s not legally allowed regarding recreational weed in Ohio:=

  1. Landlords are legally allowed to prohibit the consumption of marijuana on their properties
  2. Purchasing weed outside of a licensed dispensary is illegal.
  3. Individuals under 21 years of age cannot lawfully possess or consume adult-use marijuana.
  4. You cannot sell marijuana without an appropriate license.
  5. Buying weed in other states, like Michigan, and bringing it into Ohio is illegal.
  6. Individuals are prohibited from operating a vehicle, streetcar, trackless trolley, bike, watercraft, motor vehicle, or aircraft while using marijuana or if specific levels of cannabis or its metabolites are present in an individual’s urine or blood. 
  7. Employers are allowed to continue workplace policies, like prohibiting marijuana consumption. 
  8. Residents aren’t legally allowed to smoke, vaporize, or use any combustible weed product in a motor vehicle, vehicle, streetcar, bike, watercraft, trackless trolley, or aircraft.
  9. Ohio’s Issue 2 doesn’t protect individuals who currently own or would like to purchase a firearm. Individuals are still not allowed to buy or own firearms if they consume cannabis.
  10. There is no guarantee that adult-use businesses will be available in your region. Each region can adopt different ordinances prohibiting adult-use marijuana storefronts.

3 FAQs About Using & Selling Pot in Ohio

1. Can I be fired from my job if I smoke weed?

Potentially. Issue 2 doesn’t require employers to change their policies, which means they can still enforce drug-free workplaces. Additionally, Ohio law does allow employers to fire, discipline, or refuse to hire individuals who use, possess, or distribute marijuana. They can also enforce drug testing or zero-tolerance drug policies. To learn more about your workplace policy, speak with your employer to ensure you follow protocol. 

2. Is non-medical cannabis taxed?

Yes. Non-medical marijuana sales are subject to both state and local sales tax. Furthermore, the initiated statute includes a 10% excise tax on non-medical weed purchases. This excise tax goes towards social equity and job programs, addiction and mental health providers, local governments, and the costs of the Ohio Department of Taxation and the Division of Cannabis Control.

3. Can I use marijuana in public?

No. Issue 2 states that non-medical cannabis consumers who use it in public areas are guilty of minor misdemeanors. Ohio’s public smoking ban also prohibits individuals from vaping or smoking in public indoor spaces, which applies to the use of weed. It’s best to stick to smoking cannabis on a private property where the owner has permitted you to do so. 

4. What are the laws for growing cannabis?

If you’d like to grow your own plants, you have to meet these requirements:

  • You must be over the age of 21
  • You can only grow marijuana at your primary residence
  • The home growing area must be secured and safe to prevent unauthorized access by minors
  • The plants cannot be visible from any public space
  • If you live with others, you’re not allowed to grow more than 12 plants in total

As a grower, you don’t need a specific license. You can transfer the plants to individuals over 21 under the condition that you don’t charge for them or benefit commercially from the transaction. If you’re renting a property, your landlord has the right to prohibit cultivation by including an outlined restriction in the lease.

Protect Your Rights With Jay Perez Law

Understanding Ohio’s marijuana laws is essential for staying on the right side of the law, whether you’re a recreational user, medical patient, or involved in cannabis-related businesses. While legalization has opened new doors, there are still restrictions and penalties for violations. If you find yourself facing legal challenges related to marijuana use or possession, having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial.

Jay Perez Law’s lawyers are versed in drug-related cases and can provide the legal guidance you need to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of Ohio’s drug laws. Our Colmbus-based drug lawyers are here to ensure your voice is heard. Don’t leave your future to chance—reach out to Jay Perez Law for skilled and compassionate representation.