Is Weed Legal in Washington?

Washington was one of the first states to legalize both the medicinal and recreational use of marijuana. The sale, consumption, and purchase of cannabis are fully legal in the state, with restrictions. This resolution to legalize marijuana in Washington passed in 2014, with the first legal sales at retail outlets and dispensaries occurring in 2015, showing a short ramp-up time for the implementation of legal marijuana distribution.

What Restrictions Surround Legalized Weed in Washington?

Although weed is legal in the state of Washington, the use and sale of this drug are not without restrictions. Adults must be at least 21 years of age to both consume and purchase weed. People are limited to the amount of cannabis they can have at any given time. A person is limited to a simple ounce of cannabis, 72 ounces of the liquid form, and 16 ounces of the solid form of marijuana-infused products. Further, just as rules surround alcohol and smoking cigarettes, people are prevented from using cannabis products in public areas.

It is illegal to grow your own marijuana for both recreational uses and further resale. All people must purchase their marijuana legally from a certified dispensary. Although you do not need to be a resident of Washington state to own and consume marijuana legally, all marijuana products purchased within the state must be consumed in Washington. It is unlawful to move purchased marijuana products across state or country borders.

How Do I Buy Weed in Washington?

First, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase weed in Washington state. Just as you would have to show proof of identification to buy alcohol, you'll be asked to show your ID when purchasing marijuana. You also must pay with cash for your transaction. Because marijuana is not a federally approved and legally consumable substance, cash must be the only form of payment for this transaction. Further, you will want to go to a known and trusted dispensary to purchase your marijuana legally.

Can I Consume Marijuana in Public Areas?

Washington state prohibits the use of smoking in any public space. This rule, although intended for cigarette smoke, also applies to smoking marijuana. Although recreational use of the drug is legal, use must be restricted to private residences. Because many of the state and national parks in Washington are run and managed by federal entities, consuming marijuana while hiking, skiing, or boating is strictly prohibited and punishable with a fine or potential jail time. The use of marijuana in hotel rooms is also explicitly forbidden and may be subject to fines or penalties.