Contents
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the legal status, history, and accessibility of marijuana in Maryland, including both medical and recreational use. It covers topics such as legal frameworks, purchasing options, quality evaluation, top dispensaries, and prominent cultivators.
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Is Marijuana Legal in Maryland in 2024?
Yes, marijuana is legal for both medical and recreational adult-use in Maryland for individuals aged 21 and over. The possession, use, and cultivation of small amounts of marijuana were legalized by a referendum passed in November 2022 and took effect on July 1, 2023.
The History of Legal Weed in Maryland
Maryland has a long and complex history with marijuana laws. Decriminalization efforts began in the 1970s, and in 2003, the state became one of the first to allow medical marijuana use. The decriminalization of possession of small amounts for personal use occurred in 2014. Finally, the legalization of adult-use marijuana was achieved in 2022.
Timeline of Weed Legalization in MD:
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1977: Maryland decriminalizes possession of small amounts of marijuana.
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2003: The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission is established.
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2014: Maryland voters approve a referendum for medical marijuana use.
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2018: The Maryland Cannabis Commission is created to regulate the medical cannabis industry.
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2022: Maryland voters approve a referendum for recreational marijuana use.
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2023: Recreational marijuana sales begin on July 1st. Marijuana is now fully legalized in Maryland!!!
How to Buy Marijuana in Maryland
Medical marijuana patients can purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries after obtaining a patient registration card. For adult-use, individuals can purchase marijuana from licensed retailers once they verify their age and identity.
Maryland Medical Marijuana
The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) oversees the medical marijuana program, regulating cultivation, processing, dispensing, and patient registration. Qualifying conditions for medical marijuana include cachexia, anorexia, wasting syndrome, severe or chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, severe or persistent muscle spasms, glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or another chronic medical condition which is severe and for which other treatments have been ineffective.
Fast Facts:
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Patients qualify for medical marijuana with a doctor's recommendation for a qualifying medical condition.
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There are currently over 140,000 registered medical marijuana patients in Maryland.
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Medical patients can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
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Medical cannabis dispensaries offer a variety of products, including flower, edibles, and concentrates.
How to Get A Medical Marijuana Card in Maryland
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Maryland involves two main parts, each with its own steps. Part 1 is to register as a patient with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) and Part 2 is to obtain a written certification from a registered provider. Here's a detailed breakdown of Parts and the Steps involved:
Part 1: Register as a Patient with MMCC
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Gather your documents:
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Valid email address
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Full 9-digit Social Security Number
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Electronic copy of a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, etc.)
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Proof of Maryland residency (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
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$50 application fee (payable online)
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Create an account:
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Visit the MMCC Patient Registry (OneStop Portal): https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients.aspx
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Click "Create Account" under the Patients heading.
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Fill in your information and create a password.
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Complete the online application:
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Answer questions about your medical condition, desired dosage, and preferred dispensary.
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Upload your required documents.
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Pay the application fee.
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Review and submit your application.
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Wait for approval:
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MMCC will review your application and contact you within 30 days.
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If approved, you'll receive an email with your MMCC-issued Patient ID Number.
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Print your temporary ID card:
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Log in to your OneStop account.
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Click on "My Dashboard" and then "Patient License Number."
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Click the "Actions" tab and select "Temporary ID Card."
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Print your temporary ID, which will be valid until you receive your permanent card.
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Part 2: Obtain a Written Certification from a Registered Provider
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Find a registered provider:
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Search the MMCC Provider Registry: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients.aspx
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Consider factors like location, insurance coverage, and provider specialty.
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Schedule an appointment.
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Attend your appointment:
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Discuss your medical condition and why you believe medical cannabis could be beneficial.
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Bring your MMCC Patient ID Number and any relevant medical records.
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The provider will assess your eligibility and, if approved, issue a written certification.
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Submit the certification to MMCC:
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Your provider will submit the certification electronically through the MMCC portal.
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You can also upload the certification yourself if you receive a paper copy.
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Receive your permanent ID card:
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Once MMCC processes the certification, you'll receive a notification and your permanent ID card will be mailed to you within 10 business days.
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Additional Resources:
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Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission website: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/home.aspx
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Patient registration information: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients_regisadult.aspx
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Provider search: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients.aspx
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/faq.aspx
Important Notes:
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Qualifying medical conditions for medical cannabis in Maryland include chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, and more. See the MMCC website for a full list.
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You must be 18 years or older to apply for a medical marijuana card in Maryland.
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The process typically takes 4-6 weeks, but it could be longer depending on individual circumstances.
Maryland Adult-Use / Recreational Marijuana
The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) regulates the recreational marijuana market including licensing cultivators, processors, retailers, and distributors. Adults aged 21 and over, from any state or country, can possess marijuana with the following limits:
How Much Weed is Legal in MD?
Cannabis weight limits in Maryland are currently set at 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products that does not exceed 750mg of Delta-9 THC per adult (21+). These limits are cross-category which means you may buy a combination of all, but cannot exceed a category limit and buy more.
Adults can also grow up to 2 cannabis plants at home, but they must be kept out of public view at all times and be inaccessible to those who are under 21 years old.
Marijuana Sales Limits in Maryland
Dispensaries must not knowingly dispense more than the personal use amount of cannabis to an individual in a single day. Examples of violations include:
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Selling more than 1.5 ounces of flower
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Combining the maximum amount of usable cannabis with additional products
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Exceeding the limits on vape products, edible products, tinctures, lotions, or capsules containing THC
Sale of Clones & Seeds in MD
Dispensaries can sell up to two clones or seedlings to adults over 21 years old, and up to four clones or seedlings to qualifying patients or registered caregivers. Up to six seeds can be sold to adult-use consumers, qualifying patients, or registered caregivers.
Fast Facts On Weed Laws in MD:
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Must be 21 years of age or over.
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Can be from any state or country.
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Possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products not exceeding 750mg THC.
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Consumption is prohibited in public places.
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Home cultivation of up to two mature cannabis plants and two immature plants is permitted.
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Recreational cannabis can be purchased from licensed dispensaries.
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Most, if not all, medical dispensaries are now recreational dispensaries as well.
Weed Delivery in Maryland
Marijuana Delivery is currently legal for medical patients in Maryland, but recreational marijuana delivery is not allowed. According to the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) § 10.62.30.04, licensed medical marijuana dispensaries can deliver cannabis products to patients and caregivers with valid MMCC Patient ID cards. Although the sale of recreational marijuana in Maryland began in July 2023, dispensaries are currently prohibited from delivering cannabis to recreational users.
Fast Facts on Weed Delivery in MD:
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Medical marijuana dispensaries can deliver cannabis products to patients and caregivers with Maryland (MMCC) Patient ID cards.
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Qualifying cannabis patients must register to use marijuana delivery services.
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Delivery to recreational users is currently prohibited.
How to Find the Best Marijuana in Maryland
Consumers can research and compare different dispensaries and products based on factors such as price, quality, customer reviews, and product variety. Online resources and review platforms can be helpful in this process. At Toker’s Guide, we provide connoisseur reviews of the best, and only the best, cannabis from around the state of Maryland and beyond. Along these lines we’ve produced the following information and Top Five lists for dispensaries and cultivators statewide and by metro region.
The Top Marijuana Dispensaries in Maryland
Several dispensaries have emerged as favorites among Maryland consumers, including RISE Dispensaries, Culta, The Living Room, and Liberty. These dispensaries are lauded for their high-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and welcoming atmosphere.
Current Top Five:
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The Living Room: Evermore’s flagship dispensary in Pikesville.
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Culta Dispensary: Offers a wide variety of products at high quality.
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Liberty Cannabis: Locations in Rockville and Oxon Hill, known for their luxurious atmosphere and expert staff.
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RISE Dispensaries: Multiple locations across Maryland, known for high-quality products and customer service.
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Columbia Care / Cannabist: Wide variety of products and educational resources.
The Top Marijuana Dispensaries in Baltimore
For Baltimore residents, top dispensary picks include Remedy Baltimore, CULTA, Maggie’s, and The Living Room. These dispensaries offer a diverse selection of products and cater to a variety of consumer preferences.
Current Top Five:
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The Living Room: Evermore’s flagship dispensary in Pikesville.
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Culta Dispensary: Offers a wide variety of products at high quality.
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Remedy Columbia: Provides a welcoming and informative environment.
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Maggies: Now run by Liberty Cannabis and has a wide variety.
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Star Buds: Great service, selection, and discounts.
The Top Marijuana Dispensaries in the National Capital Region of Maryland
The National Capital Region boasts popular dispensaries such as RISE, Liberty, and Columbia Care / Cannabist. These dispensaries are conveniently located and offer a wide range of products for recreational and medicinal needs.
Current Top Five:
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RISE Dispensary - Bethesda: Offers a luxurious atmosphere and expert staff.
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Liberty Cannabis: Conveniently located in Rockville and Oxon Hill.
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Columbia Care / Cannabist: Wide variety of products and educational resources.
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Jova Wellness: Known for their friendly and informative staff.
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Sweetspot: Has great products and top-notch customer service.
Top Maryland Marijuana Cultivators
Prominent Maryland cultivators include Evermore, Culta, SunMed Growers, Grow West, and Curio Wellness. These companies are recognized for their commitment to sustainable practices, innovative cultivation techniques, and high-quality cannabis products.
Current Top Five:
Conclusion
The legal landscape of marijuana in Maryland has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the legalization of adult-use cannabis, Maryland has joined a growing number of states embracing a more relaxed approach to marijuana regulation. Currently, the state boasts a diverse and thriving cannabis industry, offering patients and adult consumers a variety of high-quality products at top-notch dispensaries. As a result, there are more options than ever before for those seeking to consume cannabis.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive overview of Marijuana in Maryland and found it to be a useful resource. With proper research and planning, individuals can find the best marijuana products and dispensaries to meet their needs right here in the state. At Toker’s Guide, we’re making that mission even easier by identifying the best cannabis across the state and keeping our audience as informed as possible so they can know before they go. As always, remember to consume marijuana responsibly and follow all applicable laws and regulations. Happy toking!