Utah maintains a tightly controlled cannabis framework, allowing medical marijuana under strict regulation while continuing to prohibit recreational weed statewide. Patients with qualifying conditions can legally access medical cannabis through the state’s medical card program, but possession or use outside approved limits remains a criminal offense, with no decriminalization for adult use. This page explains Utah’s current marijuana legality, including medical cannabis rules, possession limits, approved forms of use, recreational penalties, and how the state’s approach compares regionally and nationwide. For readers who want to see how Utah’s cannabis laws differ across the country, 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 Utah
1. Legal Status Overview
- Recreational Use: Illegal in all forms. Utah has not decriminalized recreational marijuana use or possession.
- Medical Use: Legal under strict state regulations. Patients must be registered and meet specific criteria.
2. Medical Marijuana Program
Eligibility & Conditions
For those who have been diagnosed with qualifying medical conditions, Utah permits the use of medical cannabis. These include:
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis
- HIV/AIDS
- PTSD
- Crohn’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Terminal illnesses
Patients may also petition the Compassionate Use Board for approval if their condition is not on the standard list.
Patient Access
- Patients must obtain a Medical Cannabis Card issued by the Utah Department of Health.
- A Qualified Medical Provider (QMP) must certify that the patient’s condition meets the state’s medical cannabis criteria.
- Cards are valid for up to one year and must be renewed regularly.
Forms of Use
- Approved forms include: oils, capsules, tablets, transdermal patches, topicals, and vaporized products.
- Smoking marijuana and home cultivation are strictly prohibited.
3. Possession Limits
- Registered patients may possess a 30-day supply, calculated based on prescribed dosages.
- Generally, this translates to up to 113 grams of unprocessed cannabis or its equivalent in approved forms.
4. Recreational Use & Legal Penalties
Possession Without a Card
- Less than 1 ounce: Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail, fines)
- 1 ounce to 1 pound: Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail)
- Over 1 pound: Felony charges (prison time, larger fines)
Distribution or Intent to Sell
- Considered a serious felony, especially when near schools or involving minors.
5. Recent Program Enhancements
- Simplified card renewal process
- Lowered patient fees
- New dispensary licenses in underserved rural areas
- Establishment of a research center to evaluate medical cannabis outcomes
Conclusion
Marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Utah. However, the state operates a tightly regulated and expanding medical marijuana program aimed at helping patients with serious health conditions. Unauthorized possession, use, or sale remains a criminal offense with significant penalties.
