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Is weed legal in North Carolina? The state has strict laws and denies medical or recreational use. Ironically, the Tarheel State also has some of the more lenient penalties. Relaxed hemp restrictions offer alternatives, too.
The state lags behind most of the country. It joins only ten other states that deny access to medical cannabis. Two 2021 polls indicate 73–82% of the voting public supports its introduction.
We investigate the route to making weed legal in North Carolina. Learn your rights. We explain the penalties for use, cultivation, and sale with our comprehensive guide.
History of cannabis legalization in North Carolina
The state has made virtually zero progress on NC weed laws for nearly a decade. Lawmakers presented a medical marijuana bill in 2014, but the House killed it within a year. The committee also blocked further legislation for two years with an unfavorable report.
2014 presented a lone victory for legalization, but the law is limited. The Epilepsy Alternative Treatment Act passed with an amendment. It permits hemp extract products for children with uncontrolled or drug-resistant epilepsy.
A small step forward was the 2015 legalization of cannabidiol (CBD). This cannabinoid doesn’t present psychoactive effects. Trials suggest it may produce positive reactions for patients with various issues. Unfortunately, the bill didn’t provide infrastructure for locals to get it.
Farmers grew hemp in the Tarheel State in colonial times. Around 1940, the government outlawed high THC cannabis seeds and related products. It sounded the death knell for the multi-purpose plant.
It only returned in 2017 with the Industrial Hemp Pilot Program. It regulates experimental growth according to the 2014 Farm Bill provisions.
Ironically, hemp is a smokable product and a thriving business sector. CBD from hemp is allowed, but THC isn’t legal in North Carolina. The state only tolerates levels below 0.3%. Hemp and marijuana look similar and smell the same. It’s difficult for police to control.
You can consume CBD by vaping or smoking dried hemp flowers. Dedicated stores offer tinctures, oils, edibles, salves, and lotions. Legislators have so far resisted the temptation to outlaw smoked hemp.
What are the marijuana laws in North Carolina?
Is marijuana legal in North Carolina? No, the state has some of the most restrictive laws in the country. Recreational use is illegal, as is medicinal consumption. There’s a single medical marijuana law on the books, but it’s limited, and restricts access.
Weed laws in NC decriminalized possession of under a half ounce of dried flower in 1977. Since then, the maximum fine for possession of minor amounts is $200. Half an ounce is a Class 3 misdemeanor, the lowest form.
Up to an ounce and a half is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Courts can impose a discretionary fine up to $1,000 for a first offense. The maximum jail time is 45 days. Possession of up to ten pounds is a minor felony. Expect a custodial sentence of 3–8 months and a fine for a first offense.
The sale of up to ten pounds of cannabis is also a felony. The law imposes a sentence of 3–8 months imprisonment and a fine. Penalties for sale and delivery of cannabis plant products increase with the quantities.
Is growing marijuana legalized in NC? No. Cultivating under ten pounds earns 3–8 months incarceration and a fine for a first offense. Penalties increase in line with volumes. They may vary if the state or federal government charges you.
Hemp extracts, like CBD oil or hemp oil, are legal. CBD from marijuana is not allowed. With epilepsy, you can use products with 0.9% THC and at least 5% CBD. Regular consumers can purchase hemp-derived products with up to 0.3% THC.
The state provides industrial CBD cannabis seeds with tetrahydrocannabinol values below 0.3%. You must buy a license from the local authorities to cultivate a crop. Authorities consider higher readings indicative of illegal marijuana.
Progress has stalled for nearly ten years. A 2014 medical marijuana bill passed the Senate but failed in the House. In 2021, senator Bill Rabon presented a new law. It passed the Senate but got no further. In 2023, another law passed, but the House has no plans to vote on it.
Restrictions and limits
Is weed illegal in North Carolina? We’re afraid it is. We take a closer look at the potential for wiggle room below.
How many grams of weed can I possess in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, marijuana is illegal to possess, irrespective of the amount. Under half an ounce is decriminalized, so you won’t face jail time. Expect a maximum fine of $200.
Can I grow cannabis in North Carolina?
No, you can’t. Cannabis is a controlled substance in the state, and it’s illegal to use, possess, cultivate, or trade. It’s generally a felony with a first-time offense liable for a 3-8 month jail sentence. You can buy cannabis seeds in North Carolina, but they must remain dormant.
You need a USDA license to grow hemp. It costs $250 and allows you to cultivate plants with a maximum THC value of 0.3%.
Is recreational marijuana legal in North Carolina?
No. The North Carolina state government has not approved recreational marijuana.
Where can I buy cannabis seeds legally in North Carolina?
Adults can buy and possess marijuana seeds that remain dormant or ungerminated. The state classifies them as novelty souvenirs. Seed Supreme is the largest distributor of high-quality marijuana seeds in the USA.
Cannabis laws in North Carolina mean you must buy a license to grow high CBD/low THC plants. Stock up on your favorite marijuana seeds for the eventual end of prohibition.
Key takeaways
Here’s a rundown on the current NC laws:
- North Carolina cannabis remains illegal to consume, buy, sell, or cultivate.
- The government bans medicinal cannabis. There’s a small concession for people with unmanageable epilepsy.
- Cultivation of recreational and medicinal weed seeds is outlawed, but you can grow hemp under 0.3% THC with a license.
The Tarheel State’s laws on weed are highly restrictive. While change seems probable, the time frame remains unclear.
