The start of the new year has brought Montana locals some highly anticipated news: the legal sale of recreational cannabis. This transition has been long-awaited since the legalization of medicinal cannabis back in 2004. While businesses prepare for the launch of sales, citizens are left with the question, “is weed legal in Montana?”.
Can I Buy Weed in Montana?
To answer the question “is weed legal in Montana” – sort of. Only counties where the majority of voters passed Initiative 190 can legally sell recreational cannabis for adult use. Additionally, only medical marijuana businesses that had a license before November 3, 2020, will be able to sell recreational cannabis for the first 18 months.
In counties where the majority of voters opposed Initiative 190, adult-use marijuana sales will remain prohibited.
This map from the Montana Department of Revenue shows which counties approved and opposed the bill.
The status of these counties is not necessarily permanent, though. An election may change the outcome of a county that previously voted against the bill for legal weed in Montana. Likewise, elections can change the outcome of counties where voters previously voted to legalize cannabis in MT.
- Counties in red have no recreational adult-use cannabis sales in Montana.
- Green counties allow recreational adult-use cannabis sales in MT.
- Counties in blue have opted to include the local option sales tax on cannabis sales.
Can I Possess Cannabis in MT?
The question, “is weed legal in Montana,” also addresses possession, not just purchase. Adults 21 and older can have and use up to one ounce of cannabis with no criminal penalties, regardless of what county they’re in. Adults will be able to purchase up to one ounce of marijuana from approved businesses.
Can I Grow Weed in Montana?
Adults may grow weed legally in Montana. This includes up to two mature cannabis plants and two seedlings for private use in a private residence– with one condition. Plants may not be visible to the public. Conversely, medicinal marijuana cardholders may cultivate twice the amount of recreational users.