Ohio Cannabis Law: What’s Legal, What’s Not, and What Changed

Ohio cannabis law has evolved significantly, making marijuana legal for adults 21 and older under clearly defined rules. While Ohio marijuana laws now allow legal possession, home cultivation, and retail sales, strict regulations still apply around where cannabis can be purchased, used, transported, and grown. This guide explains current Ohio cannabis law in plain English so you know exactly what’s legal, what’s restricted, and how to stay compliant when buying or using cannabis in Ohio.

Ohio cannabis law is governed by voter-approved legislation and administered through state regulatory agencies responsible for licensing, compliance, taxation, and enforcement.

What Are the Legal Possession Limits in Ohio?

Ohio Marijuana Possession Limits for Adults

Under current Ohio cannabis law, adults 21 and older may legally possess:

• Up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower

• Up to 15 grams of cannabis concentrates

• Equivalent amounts of THC in edibles and infused products

Edibles and infused products are calculated based on total THC content as defined by Ohio regulations, not by product weight alone. Possessing amounts above legal limits may still result in penalties.

Learn more about Ohio cannabis possession laws and where and how to transport legally.

Ohio Medical Marijuana Laws vs Recreational Cannabis

Differences Between Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis

The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control continues to operate a regulated medical marijuana program alongside adult-use cannabis.

Medical cannabis patients can purchase in 45-day windows and may receive:

• Higher possession limits

• Lower tax rates

• Access to medical-only products

• Eligibility for patients under 21

Both systems operate through licensed dispensaries but follow separate regulatory frameworks, learn how much medical patients can purchase and possess in a 45-day window.

Where Can You Legally Buy Cannabis in Ohio?

Ohio Dispensary Laws Explained

Cannabis may only be purchased from state-licensed Ohio dispensaries. Buying marijuana from unlicensed sellers, online marketplaces, or out-of-state sources is illegal.

Legal purchasing requirements include:

• Government-issued photo ID

• Minimum age of 21 (or registered medical patient)

• Compliance with Ohio purchase and tracking regulations

Visit any of our Bloom Ohio Dispensary locations for all your cannabis needs.

Where Is Cannabis Use Still Illegal in Ohio?

Ohio Public Consumption Laws

Even though cannabis is legal, public use is prohibited.

Cannabis use is illegal in:

• Streets and sidewalks

• Parks and public venues

• Vehicles (including passengers)

• Any location where smoking is prohibited

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and enforced similarly to alcohol-related DUI laws.

Can You Grow Cannabis at Home in Ohio?

Ohio Home Grow Laws

Ohio law allows limited home cultivation for adults 21 and older:

• Up to 6 cannabis plants per adult

• Maximum of 12 plants per household

• Plants must be grown in a secure, private location

• Homegrown cannabis cannot be sold or distributed

Exceeding plant limits or selling homegrown cannabis remains illegal under Ohio law.

How Federal Law Interacts With Ohio Cannabis Law

State Legalization vs Federal Prohibition

While cannabis is legal under Ohio state law, marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Federal enforcement is generally limited when individuals follow state law, but federal restrictions still apply in certain situations.

Federal law matters when it comes to:

• Crossing state lines with cannabis

• Possession on federal property (airports, national parks)

• Certain federal employment and housing programs

Can You Travel With Cannabis in Ohio?

Ohio Cannabis Transportation Laws

Cannabis must remain within Ohio state lines. Transport only legally purchased, sealed products. Crossing into another state with cannabis — even another legal state — is illegal under federal law.

Recent Changes to Ohio Cannabis Law

What Changed Under Current Regulations

Ohio’s transition to adult-use cannabis legalized possession for adults, established retail sales, and introduced home cultivation. Additional regulatory updates may occur as the state refines licensing, taxation, and enforcement standards.

What Penalties Still Exist Under Ohio Cannabis Law?

What’s Still Illegal

Despite legalization, penalties still apply for:

• Possessing more than legal limits

• Selling cannabis without a license

• Public consumption

• Driving under the influence

• Providing cannabis to minors