Cannabis Is Legal in Washington
Initiative 502 passed November 2012 with 56% of the vote — one of the first two states to legalize. Retail sales began July 2014.
Washington Cannabis Quick Facts
| Status | Recreational & Medical |
| Recreational | Legal |
| Medical | Legal |
| Decriminalized | Yes |
| Possession Limit | 1 oz flower, 7g concentrate, 16 oz edibles solid, 72 oz edibles liquid; medical: 3 oz flower or equivalent |
| Medical Conditions | Cancer, HIV/AIDS, epilepsy, Crohn's, glaucoma, hepatitis C, intractable pain, and others |
| Regulatory Agency | Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) |
Penalties & Enforcement
Over 1 oz: misdemeanor. Over 40g: felony.
Even in states with legal cannabis, violations of possession limits, public consumption rules, and driving under the influence carry penalties. Driving while impaired is illegal in every state and can result in DUI charges.
What You Need to Know
One of the most mature markets in the US alongside Colorado. 37% effective tax rate (one of the highest). No home cultivation for recreational users. Medical patients may grow up to 6 plants with authorization.
Nearby States with Legal Cannabis
Washington borders or is near states with legal recreational cannabis. Remember: transporting cannabis across state lines is a federal crime, even between two legal states.
- Oregon — Recreational & Medical
Learn More
- How to Get a Medical Cannabis Card — state-by-state application guide
- Understanding State Cannabis Laws — how state and federal laws interact
- What to Expect at a Dispensary — first visit guide
- Dosing Fundamentals — start low, go slow
- Drug Interactions — check before combining cannabis with medications
- Driving & Impairment — DUI laws apply in every state
For support with quitting or cutting back on cannabis, visit our companion site CannabisDependence.org