Recreational Use: Legal since November 2012 following the passage of Initiative 502. Adults 21 years and older may legally purchase and possess marijuana from licensed retailers.
Medical Use: Legal since 1998 under the Washington State Medical Use of Cannabis Act. Requires a medical authorization from a healthcare provider.
2. Possession Limits
Recreational Users:
1 ounce (28g) of usable cannabis
16 ounces of cannabis-infused solids
72 ounces of cannabis-infused liquids
7 grams of cannabis concentrates
Medical Patients (Registered):
Three ounces or more of edible marijuana
48 ounces of solid infused goods
216 ounces in liquid form
21 grams of concentrates
May grow up to 6 plants (up to 15 with healthcare authorization)
3. Regulation & Enforcement
Regulatory Authority: Managed by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB). Regulates licensing for production, processing, and retail.
Public Use: Consumption in public is prohibited and subject to penalties.
Driving Under the Influence: Illegal; blood THC concentration limit is 5 ng/mL.
4. Federal Law
Cannabis remains illegal federally under the Controlled Substances Act (Schedule I). Use on federal lands (e.g., national parks) is prohibited.
