Is weed legal in North Carolina?
Cannabis Laws in North Carolina
In North Carolina, recreational cannabis is Illegal; Decriminalized up to 42 g (1.5 oz) or less and medical cannabis is CBD oil.
Illegal; Decriminalized up to 42 g (1.5 oz) or less
CBD oil
1977: decriminalized 2015: CBD legalized
Glossary
Possession
In the context of cannabis laws, "possession" refers to having physical control over cannabis products. Laws often specify the amount one can possess, commonly in terms of weight (e.g., ounces, grams). Penalties for possession can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on jurisdiction and the amount possessed.
Decriminalized
Decriminalization means that possession of a small amount of cannabis for personal use is not a criminal offense, but may still be subject to a fine or other administrative penalties. It's a middle ground between full legalization and criminalization. Decriminalization aims to reduce the social and economic costs of enforcing cannabis prohibition, such as arrests and imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is weed legal in North Carolina?▾
Recreational: Illegal; Decriminalized up to 42 g (1.5 oz) or less. Medical: CBD oil.
What are the cannabis laws in North Carolina?▾
In North Carolina, recreational cannabis is Illegal; Decriminalized up to 42 g (1.5 oz) or less and medical cannabis is CBD oil.
Is medical marijuana legal in North Carolina?▾
CBD oil
Is recreational weed legal in North Carolina?▾
Illegal; Decriminalized up to 42 g (1.5 oz) or less
Is CBD legal in North Carolina?▾
CBD derived from hemp (containing less than 0.3% THC) is legal federally and in North Carolina under the 2018 Farm Bill. Always verify THC content when purchasing CBD products.
Can tourists buy cannabis in North Carolina?▾
Yes, adults 21+ can purchase from licensed dispensaries
What is the possession limit in North Carolina?▾
The possession limit in North Carolina is 1.5 oz for recreational use and Not specified for medical use.
Are dispensaries legal in North Carolina?▾
Yes, licensed dispensaries are open to adults 21+ in North Carolina.
Can I travel with cannabis within North Carolina?▾
Traveling with cannabis within North Carolina is only permitted if you're in a legal jurisdiction and following possession limits. Driving under the influence is illegal. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law, so avoid airports and federal property.
When were cannabis laws last changed in North Carolina?▾
Cannabis laws in North Carolina were last updated around 2015. 1977: decriminalized 2015: CBD legalized...
Is cannabis legal in nearby locations?
Last updated: 2026