California cannabis laws
Status: Adult-use legal · Legal since 2016
California operates the largest legal cannabis market in the United States, with mature wholesale price compression and ongoing illicit market displacement challenges.
Program highlights
- —Adult-use legalized via Proposition 64 in 2016
- —Operational since January 2018
- —DCC oversees licensing, retail, and cultivation
- —Total-THC threshold adopted for hemp products in 2024
California cannabis FAQ
Is recreational cannabis legal in California?
Yes. California legalized adult-use cannabis via Proposition 64 in November 2016, and licensed retail sales have been operational statewide since January 2018.
How much cannabis can I legally possess in California?
Adults 21 and over may possess up to 28.5 grams (1 ounce) of cannabis flower and up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis.
Can I grow cannabis at home in California?
Yes. Adults 21 and over may grow up to six plants per residence for personal use, though local jurisdictions may impose additional limitations on outdoor cultivation visibility.
Is THCA flower legal in California?
California adopted a total-THC standard for hemp products in 2024, which effectively prohibits the sale of high-THCA flower outside of the licensed adult-use system.
Legal disclaimer
This page summarizes publicly available information about California cannabis law. It is not legal advice. Statutes and regulations change. Confirm current law with the relevant state agency or qualified counsel before acting on this information.
Other states
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