Missouri now operates under a voter-approved cannabis system that allows legal access to weed for both recreational users and medical patients, subject to state regulation. Adults 21 and older can legally possess and purchase marijuana, while registered patients have additional allowances through the medical cannabis program overseen by state health authorities. This page explains Missouri’s current marijuana legality, including recreational and medical use rules, possession limits, cultivation allowances, tax structure, and key restrictions that still apply. For readers who want to compare Missouri’s cannabis laws with 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.
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Is marijuana legal in Missouri
As of 2025, marijuana is legal in Missouri for both medical and recreational use, under specific regulations outlined in state law.
Recreational Use
Recreational marijuana became legal in Missouri following the approval of Amendment 3 by voters in November 2022. This amendment legalized the possession, consumption, and purchase of cannabis by adults aged 21 and over. Individuals may possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower and are permitted to cultivate up to six flowering plants, six immature plants, and six seedlings per person, with a limit of 12 flowering plants per household (regardless of the number of adults).
Licensed dispensaries began recreational sales on February 3, 2023. These establishments are regulated by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), which oversees licensing and compliance. Purchases are subject to a 6% state sales tax, and local governments can impose an additional 3% tax.
Medical Use
After Amendment 2 was passed in 2018, medical marijuana became legal in Missouri. Patients with qualifying conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, PTSD, chronic pain, and others can obtain a medical marijuana card through a physician’s certification. Medical patients can possess up to 6 ounces of dried, unprocessed cannabis per month and are allowed home cultivation under similar guidelines to recreational users.
Restrictions
Despite legalization, public consumption of marijuana remains prohibited, and driving under the influence is strictly illegal. Employers are also permitted to enforce drug-free workplace policies.
Federal Law
According to federal law, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I substance. However, Missouri’s state law provides legal protection for residents complying with state regulations.
In summary, Missouri has a robust framework for legal marijuana, supporting both recreational and medical use, with clear rules on possession, sales, and cultivation.
