California Cannabis Laws

(CA)
RecreationalUpdated December 6, 2025

California, the first state to legalize medical cannabis (1996) and recreational in 2016. Adults can possess 28.5g and grow 6 plants.

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Key Statistics

Fully Legal
Legal Status
21+
Minimum Age
28.5g flower, 8g concentr...
Possession Limit
Allowed
Home Growing

Quick Facts

Recreational

Legal

Medical

Legal

Minimum Age

21+

Effective Date

November 8, 2016

Recreational Cannabis Laws

Possession Limit

28.5g flower, 8g concentrate

Purchase Limit

28.5g flower, 8g concentrate per day

Home Cultivation

6 plants per residence

Medical Cannabis Program

Possession Limit

8 oz or amount determined by physician

Qualifying Conditions

Any condition where medical use is appropriate and recommended by physician

Need help getting your medical card? Check out our complete guide to getting a medical marijuana card.

Federal vs. California Law

Important: Cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, regardless of state legalization.

Federal Law

Illegal (Schedule I)

All cannabis possession, sale, and cultivation is prohibited

California Law

Recreational Legal

Adults 21+ can legally purchase and possess

What this means: While California has legalized cannabis at the state level, federal agencies can still enforce federal law. This affects banking, interstate commerce, federal employment, and travel across state lines or through federal lands.

California Cannabis Law FAQ

Yes, California legalized recreational marijuana with Proposition 64 in 2016. Adults 21+ can purchase and possess cannabis.

Official Resources

For the most up-to-date and authoritative information, visit the official state resource:

California Official Cannabis Website

Sources

California (CA)

Quick Reference Card

Fully Legal
Recreational

Legal

Medical

Legal

Possession Limit

28.5g flower, 8g concentrate

Min Age

21+

Home Grow

6 plants per residence

Last verified: December 6, 2025cannabislaw.munchmakers.com
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