Costa Rica applies a balanced cannabis policy that allows regulated medical marijuana use while keeping recreational weed illegal under national law. Small amounts of marijuana for personal possession are generally decriminalized and tolerated, but buying, selling, cultivating, or using cannabis recreationally remains prohibited, and public consumption can still lead to penalties. This page explains Costa Rica’s current marijuana legality, including medical cannabis regulations, personal possession rules, recreational restrictions, enforcement practices, and what residents and visitors should realistically expect. For readers who want to compare Costa Rica’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 legal in Costa Rica
1. Medical Marijuana
- Status: Legal
- Since: March 2022
- Details: Licensed cultivation, production, and sale of cannabis-based products are allowed.
- Who Can Use: Patients with prescriptions from authorized medical professionals.
2. Personal Possession
- Status: Decriminalized, but not officially legal.
- Allowed Amount: Small quantities (generally under 8 grams) are tolerated.
- Enforcement: Possession may lead to confiscation but not arrest, unless linked to trafficking or sale.
3. Recreational Use
- Status: Illegal
- Details: Buying, selling, growing, or distributing cannabis for recreational use is prohibited and punishable by law.
4. Public Consumption
- Status: Prohibited
- Penalty: Smoking marijuana in public can result in fines or legal consequences.
5. Law Enforcement
- General Approach: Lenient, especially in tourist areas.
- Warning: Laws can still be enforced strictly, especially for larger quantities or public use.
Summary
- Medical use: Legal and regulated
- Personal use: Tolerated in small amounts
- Recreational use: Illegal
- Public smoking: Illegal
Stay informed and cautious.
