YES! It's Legal in Ohio!

If you're wondering "is weed legal in Ohio," the answer is yes—for adults 21 and older. Ohio legalized recreational cannabis in November 2023, with sales starting in August 2024. As of September 2025, the state has seen significant updates, including legislative changes to voter-approved laws. This guide breaks down the current status, possession limits, home growing rules, where to buy, and important considerations for staying compliant.

Recreational Cannabis: Legal Since 2023

On November 7, 2023, Ohio voters approved Issue 2 by a 57-43 margin, making Ohio the 24th state to legalize adult-use cannabis. Effective December 7, 2023, adults 21+ can possess and consume cannabis legally. Recreational sales began on August 6, 2024, at licensed dispensaries that also serve medical patients.

However, 2025 brought changes: The Ohio Senate passed SB 56 in February, overhauling aspects of Issue 2, such as reducing THC limits in extracts from 90% to 70% and restricting home growing and sharing. These updates aim to tighten regulations while maintaining legalization.

Possession Limits and Home Growing Rules

Under Ohio law, adults 21+ can possess up to 2.5 ounces (70 grams) of cannabis flower and 0.5 ounces (15 grams) of concentrates. Possession beyond these limits can result in fines or criminal charges.

• Home Cultivation: Individuals can grow up to 6 plants, with households limited to 12. Recent 2025 legislation has introduced stricter rules on sharing home-grown cannabis, potentially making it a felony in some cases.
• Storage: Cannabis must be stored in its original packaging and out of public view.
• Under 21: Possession remains illegal, with penalties under Ohio's long-standing decriminalization law from 1975 applying as minor misdemeanors for small amounts.

Where to Buy Cannabis in Ohio

Recreational cannabis is sold at licensed dispensaries regulated by the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC). As of September 2025, over 100 dual-use (medical and recreational) dispensaries are operational, with sales exceeding $702.5 million in the first year.

A 10% excise tax applies to recreational purchases, plus standard state and local sales taxes (5.25–7.5%). Medical patients are exempt from the 10% tax. Note: About 145 municipalities (6% of Ohio's localities) have moratoriums banning dispensaries as of September 2025, so availability varies by area.

Medical Cannabis in Ohio

Ohio's medical program, established in 2016, remains robust. Patients with qualifying conditions (e.g., chronic pain, PTSD) can access cannabis without the 10% recreational tax. Recreational legalization hasn't changed medical access, but many patients now opt for recreational purchases due to fewer restrictions on age and conditions.

Consumption Rules and Restrictions

While possession is legal, public consumption is prohibited and can lead to fines. Use is limited to private residences. Driving under the influence remains illegal, with THC limits similar to alcohol DUI thresholds.

• No Out-of-State Purchases: It's illegal to possess cannabis bought from other states.
• Workplace and Federal: Cannabis is still federally illegal, so use on federal property or in employment subject to federal rules is prohibited.
• Expungements: Ohio allows expungement of certain past cannabis convictions now legalized under Issue 2.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weed in Ohio

Here are answers to common questions on Ohio cannabis laws in 2025:

• Is weed legal in Ohio for recreational use? Yes, for adults 21+ since December 2023.
• Can I grow cannabis at home in Ohio? Yes, up to 6 plants per person (12 per household), with new 2025 restrictions on sharing