Oregon has long operated under a fully legalized cannabis system, allowing adults to legally use weed for both recreational and medical purposes under state oversight. Marijuana can be purchased from licensed dispensaries by adults 21 and older, while registered patients receive expanded access and higher possession limits through the state’s medical cannabis program. This page explains Oregon’s current marijuana legality, including recreational and medical use rules, possession and cultivation limits, purchasing regulations, and how state law is enforced today. For readers who want to see how Oregon’s cannabis laws compare nationwide, explore 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 Oregon
Legal Status
Marijuana is legal in Oregon for both medical and recreational use under state law.
Recreational Use
- Legalized: In 2014 via Measure 91
- Age Requirement: 21 years and older
- Possession Limits:
- Up to 1 ounce (28 grams) in public
- Up to 8 ounces at home
- Up to 4 cannabis plants per household for personal cultivation
- Where to Buy: Only at state-licensed dispensaries regulated by the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC)
- Prohibited Areas: Use is not allowed in public places, federal property, or vehicles
Medical Use
- Legalized: In 1998 under the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act
- Eligibility: Requires a recommendation from a licensed physician for qualifying conditions
- Possession: Higher possession and cultivation limits than recreational users
- Registration: Patients must register with the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP)
Regulations
- Sales and Licensing: Regulated by the OLCC
- Taxation: Recreational marijuana is subject to a 17% state sales tax, with potential local taxes up to 3%
- Employment: Employers may enforce drug-free workplace policies
Federal Law
Despite state legality, marijuana remains illegal federally as a Schedule I substance, affecting inter-state transport and federal land use.
