Vermont has fully legalized cannabis, allowing adults to legally use weed for both recreational and medical purposes under a state-regulated system. Adults 21 and older may possess and grow marijuana within set limits, while licensed retailers are permitted to sell cannabis products in municipalities that opt in. This page explains Vermont’s current marijuana legality, including recreational and medical use rules, possession and cultivation limits, retail sales structure, and key restrictions that still apply statewide. For readers who want to compare how Vermont’s cannabis laws align 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 Vermont
As of 2025, marijuana is legal in Vermont for both medical and recreational use, subject to specific regulations.
Recreational Use:
Recreational marijuana was legalized in Vermont in January 2018 through Act 86, making it the first state to legalize cannabis via legislation rather than a voter initiative. Adults 21 and older may legally:
- Hold a maximum of one ounce (28 grams) of marijuana.
- Cultivate two mature and four immature plants per household.
Retail sales of marijuana became legal in October 2022, regulated by the Vermont Cannabis Control Board (CCB). Licensed dispensaries can sell cannabis products, and municipalities have the option to allow or ban cannabis retail operations.
Medical Use:
Vermont legalized medical marijuana in 2004 under Senate Bill 76. Registered patients with qualifying conditions (e.g., chronic pain, PTSD, cancer) may possess up to 2 ounces and grow limited plants. The state maintains a Medical Cannabis Registry, and patients must obtain certification from a licensed healthcare provider.
Restrictions:
- Public consumption is prohibited.
- It is prohibited to drive while under the influence of cannabis.
- Employers may maintain drug-free workplace policies.
- Homegrown cannabis cannot be sold.
Vermont continues refining regulations to ensure public health, equity in licensing, and safe consumer access to cannabis products.
