Idaho maintains one of the most restrictive cannabis policies in the United States, keeping both recreational weed and medical marijuana illegal under state law. Unlike many states that allow limited medical use or voter-led reforms, Idaho enforces a zero-tolerance approach, with criminal penalties applying to most forms of cannabis possession and use. This page explains Idaho’s current marijuana legality, including possession penalties, the absence of a medical cannabis program, CBD restrictions, and how the state’s stance compares to surrounding legalized regions. For readers who want to explore how Idaho’s laws differ nationwide, 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 Idaho
1. Legal Status
- Recreational Marijuana: Illegal
- Medical Marijuana: Illegal
- CBD Products: Limited to products with 0% THC and under strict regulation.
2. Possession Penalties
- < 3 ounces:
- Misdemeanor
- Penalty: $1,000 fine and a maximum of one year in prison
- > 3 ounces:
- Felony
- Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 fine
3. Medical Use
- No Medical Marijuana Program
- No recognized use of cannabis for medical treatment, including for chronic pain or epilepsy.
- Idaho does not allow medical exemptions, even for severe conditions.
4. CBD Regulation
- Only CBD oil with 0% THC is technically legal.
- Even trace amounts of THC make a product illegal.
- CBD must meet state-specific labeling and registration requirements.
5. Legislative History
- 2021: Governor Brad Little signed a law banning legalization through ballot initiatives.
- Repeated efforts to legalize or decriminalize marijuana have failed in the legislature.
6. Regional Context
- Surrounding States (e.g., Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Montana) have legalized marijuana.
- Idaho stands as one of the most prohibitionist states in the U.S.
Conclusion
Idaho maintains a zero-tolerance policy on marijuana. Both recreational and medical use are strictly prohibited, with harsh penalties and no foreseeable reforms in the near future.
