Is weed legal in Virginia? Both medical and recreational marijuana use are legal in Virginia. However, if you’re traveling to Virginia for vacation, you should know the laws and regulations that could impact your experience.
In recent years, the United States has witnessed a significant shift in public opinion about marijuana use. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center last year found that 88% of U.S. adults support the legalization of marijuana, with 57% favoring both medical and recreational use and 32% supporting medical use only.
This growing acceptance has led to substantial changes in state laws, with many states, including Virginia, legalizing marijuana for medical and/or recreational use.
However, since regulations differ by state, it’s crucial to understand Virginia’s marijuana laws if you plan to visit.
Recreational Marijuana Use in Virginia
Adults 21 and older are allowed to:
- Possess up to one ounce (28.3 grams) of weed in public.
- Cultivate up to four marijuana plants per household. They must be labeled with the owner’s name and kept out of public view.
Although marijuana is legal in Virginia, there’s no recreational market yet. Legislative challenges have delayed the opening of retail dispensaries.
In February 2024, the Virginia House of Delegates passed a bill to establish a regulated retail market for marijuana sales in the state.
In March 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed the bill that would have allowed recreational sales to begin on May 1, 2025. He cited health and safety concerns.
Medical Marijuana Use in Virginia
Virginia has a structured medical cannabis program. Registered patients can purchase marijuana products from state-licensed dispensaries.
These products include flower, edibles, topicals, oils, capsules, lozenges, and patches.
Out-of-State Medical Marijuana Cards Not Accepted
Virginia does not recognize medical marijuana cards from other states. Therefore, out-of-state visitors cannot make purchases from Virginia dispensaries.
Travelers relying on medical marijuana should plan accordingly, as bringing weed across state lines remains illegal under federal law.
Pending Legislation and Future Outlook
The absence of a legal retail market for recreational marijuana in Virginia has been a point of contention. Efforts to establish such a market have been impeded by political disagreements.
With the Democratic Party regaining control of the Virginia House of Delegates in November 2023, there is renewed optimism for establishing a regulated market.
However, any new legislation would require the governor’s approval, and Governor Youngkin has previously expressed reservations about advancing marijuana legislation. Youngkin’s term is set to end in November 2025.
Important Things for Visitors to Know
- Public Consumption: Using weed in public places is illegal and can result in fines.
- Transportation: While you can drive with limited amounts marijuana within Virginia, crossing state lines with weed is illegal, regardless of the laws in your state.
- Private Property: Property owners and rental agreements may have rules regarding marijuana use. Always ask permission before using marijuana on private property.
- Federal Property: Weed is illegal on federal property, including national parks and military bases, even if they are in Virginia.
Weed is Legal in Virginia, But Laws Still Apply
While Virginia allows you to smoke or consume marijuana, the lack of a legal retail market for recreational users and the non-recognition of out-of-state medical marijuana cards are challenges for travelers.
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a Travel Journalist, Yahoo! Creator, MSN Partner, Society of American Travel Writers and North American Travel Journalists Association member, and the founder of Wander Worthy. She covers vacation destinations, travel news, and tourism trends.
