Mexico’s cannabis laws sit in a middle ground between prohibition and full legalization, often leading to confusion about what is actually legal. While recreational weed is no longer criminalized for personal use, marijuana is not fully legal under a regulated commercial framework, and important limits still apply to possession, cultivation, and public consumption. This page explains whether marijuana is illegal in Mexico, outlining current decriminalization rules, possession thresholds, home growing rights, restrictions on sales, and how enforcement works in practice. For readers who want to compare Mexico’s approach with cannabis laws in other regions, see our comprehensive breakdown of cannabis regulations by location across U.S. states, major cities, and countries worldwide in the Cannabis Laws by Location guide.
Table of Contents
Is marijuana illegal in Mexico
1. Legal Status
- Decriminalization: In June 2021, Mexico’s Supreme Court struck down laws that prohibited the personal use of marijuana, effectively decriminalizing it.
- Legal for Personal Use: Adults aged 18 and older are legally allowed to possess and consume marijuana for recreational purposes.
2. Possession Limits
- Up to 28 grams: Legal for personal possession.
- Over 28 grams: May result in fines or criminal charges, depending on the amount and circumstances.
3. Cultivation
- Home Growing Allowed: Adults may cultivate up to six cannabis plants per person (12 per household) for personal use.
- Private Use Only: Cultivation must occur in private spaces, not visible to the public.
4. Commercialization
- Not Yet Legal: Commercial sale, distribution, and production are still illegal pending formal legislation.
- Licensing Framework: A proposed legal framework has faced multiple delays in Congress, leaving the industry in a regulatory limbo.
5. Public Consumption and Driving
- Public Use: Prohibited in public places.
- Driving Under Influence: Remains illegal and punishable.
6. Conclusion
While marijuana is decriminalized and permitted for personal use in Mexico, the absence of full legislative regulation means commercial activities remain restricted. Legal clarity is expected once Congress finalizes comprehensive cannabis legislation.
