This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not make health claims. Cannabis is for adult use (21+) only. Please consume responsibly.
Cannabis Laws in Washington: What You Need to Know Before You Buy or Use
Washington State was one of the first in the U.S. to legalize adult-use cannabis. Since the passage of Initiative 502 in 2012, cannabis has become part of mainstream culture across the state. However, while cannabis is legal for adults over 21, the laws surrounding its use, possession, and purchase are strictly regulated. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a long-time consumer, understanding these rules ensures you stay safe, compliant, and informed.
Below, we break down the key laws every cannabis consumer in Washington should know, from legal age and possession limits to transportation rules and usage restrictions.
This guide will walk you through the current regulations so you can enjoy cannabis legally and safely. And if you are looking for more information check out the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board website: https://lcb.wa.gov/education/using_and_having_cannabis
Adults 21+ Only: Cannabis Is Legal, But Not for Everyone
In Washington, cannabis is legal only for adults aged 21 and older. This applies to all forms of cannabis, including flower, concentrates, edibles, and vape products. Much like alcohol and tobacco, purchasing or possessing cannabis while under the legal age is strictly prohibited. State-licensed cannabis retailers require a valid, government-issued photo ID for entry and purchase verification, and they are trained to deny sales to anyone who cannot meet this requirement.
It’s important to note that medical cannabis laws differ and may allow for access at younger ages under specific conditions with a medical marijuana authorization. However, for adult-use recreational cannabis, 21 is the magic number.
Public Consumption Is Still Illegal—Even Where Cannabis Is Legal
Despite being legal for private use, cannabis cannot be consumed in public. This rule applies to all forms of cannabis consumption—including smoking, vaping, or ingesting edibles. Public places where use is banned include city parks, sidewalks, restaurants, bars, concert venues, state and national parks, and federal lands or buildings.
Essentially, if it’s a space where the general public is welcome, it’s likely a no-go for cannabis use. Consumption must take place in private residences or in spaces where cannabis use is explicitly permitted by the property owner. Always ask before using cannabis in any shared or rented space.
Possession and Purchase Limits in Washington State
Washington law places specific limits on how much cannabis you can purchase and possess at one time. These regulations apply to everyone, whether you’re a tourist or a resident.
Here’s what you’re legally allowed to possess if you are 21 or older:
Up to 1 ounce (28 grams) of usable cannabis (flower or bud)
Up to 16 ounces of cannabis-infused edibles in solid form (like brownies or gummies)
Up to 72 ounces of cannabis-infused products in liquid form (such as beverages or syrups)
Up to 7 grams of cannabis concentrate (including dabs, oils, waxes, cartridges, and infused pre-rolls)
It’s important to remember that cannabis can only be purchased from a licensed state cannabis retailer. Products purchased from unlicensed sources are illegal, even if the amount is under the legal limit.
Storing and Transporting Cannabis in a Vehicle
When transporting cannabis in a car, truck, motorcycle, or any other vehicle, you must follow specific storage rules. Cannabis must be stored in a sealed container, in its original packaging, and placed in an area that is not accessible to the driver or passengers—such as the trunk. The glove compartment does not qualify as a legal storage space.
If your vehicle doesn’t have a trunk (such as a hatchback or pickup), store the product in a place that is out of reach and not occupied during travel.
Most importantly, driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal. The state of Washington enforces a legal THC limit of 5 nanograms per milliliter of blood for drivers over 21. For those under 21, the law is zero tolerance—any detectable amount of THC can result in DUI charges.
No Recreational Home Growing Allowed
Unlike some other legalized states, Washington does not allow recreational users to grow cannabis at home. Home cultivation is only permitted for registered medical marijuana patients with a valid medical authorization. Even in that case, there are strict limits and registration requirements.
This means that all recreational cannabis must be purchased through a licensed dispensary, and personal cultivation—even for private, non-commercial use—is considered illegal and can result in criminal penalties.
Cannabis Gifting and Sharing Are Restricted
While it might feel natural to share a joint with a friend, Washington law prohibits gifting or transferring cannabis between individuals if it involves an unlicensed transaction. That means you cannot legally:
Give cannabis as a gift
Sell cannabis to another person (unless you are a licensed retailer)
Share cannabis products with a minor
Providing cannabis to anyone under 21 is considered a felony offense with serious legal consequences.
Federal Law Still Applies
Although cannabis is legal under Washington state law, it remains illegal at the federal level. That means it is still a criminal offense to:
Transport cannabis across state lines, even into another legal state
Use cannabis on any federal property, such as national parks, military bases, or federally funded housing
Attempt to carry cannabis through airport security or across national borders
This federal status also means cannabis-related offenses can impact your ability to access federal jobs, housing, and education funding.
Cannabis at Work, Hotels, and Rental Properties
Employers and property owners retain the right to create and enforce their own policies on cannabis use. This means:
Your employer can prohibit cannabis use, even if it’s during your personal time off the job.
Landlords can prohibit cannabis consumption and storage on their property, particularly in shared units or non-smoking facilities.
Hotels and motels are allowed to ban cannabis on their premises, so always check before lighting up in your room.
If you’re unsure about your workplace or living situation’s policy on cannabis, it’s always best to ask in advance.
Why Knowing the Law Matters
Whether you’re shopping for cannabis for relaxation, creativity, or wellness, understanding the laws surrounding it is crucial. Being an informed consumer helps you stay compliant, avoid legal trouble, and ensures a positive experience for yourself and those around you.
Legal cannabis doesn’t mean lawless cannabis. From knowing where you can consume to understanding how much you can carry, every piece of knowledge empowers you to make smarter decisions. Washington’s cannabis laws were designed to prioritize public health, safety, and community well-being—and as a consumer, you play a vital role in that mission.