Everything You Need To Know About the Marijuana Laws in California

Back in November of 2016, California passed Proposition 64 better known as the Adult Use Marijuana Act (AUMA). This legalized recreational marijuana use for adults aged 21 years or older. Now, while that may have been the case, there were still some solid limitations.

On January 1, 2018, California began its first day of adult-use cannabis sales. With this happening, recreational dispensaries could legally be open to the public. As a California resident, you can grow up to six marijuana plants at a time. Although, they have to be locked away from public view. Not to mention there should be no private sales and no removal of more than 28.5 grams from your residence at a time.

Now, even though recreational marijuana is legal, there are still California marijuana laws that you have to be aware of.

Means of Possession

With valid photo identification, you can walk into a dispensary with a limit in mind. You can purchase up to 8 grams of concentrate and 28.5 grams of the flower. In reality, this means you can stock up your vape pen and pipe in one sitting. As stated above with regards to growing your own plants, that’s also a part of the law of possession.

You have the constitutional right to possess and consume marijuana in California as long as you’re 21 years of age or older. Plus, you must possess a government-issued identification card as proof of age.

Law of Consumption

There are several restrictions on consumption under the Adult Use Marijuana Act (AUMA). Marijuana consumption is housed under the term “smoke” which refers to burning, inhaling, and carrying anything intended to inhale with. Vaporizers and aerosols also fall under the same category as well. There are also restrictions on when you can consume legal cannabis:

• You CAN’T consume legal cannabis at:
  • Any location where tobacco smoking is prohibited.
  • Within 1,000 feet of a school, youth center or daycare where children are present while not inside the confines of a private residence.
  • Any public place or area.

• Places you CAN consume legal cannabis:
  • Outdoors on a private residence so long as the city/county the residence is located in does not prohibit such action.
  • Private residences.
  • Accessory structures located on the grounds of a private residence that is enclosed & secure from the public.

Exporting & Transporting Marijuana

It’s illegal to export marijuana across state lines in the state of California (whether driven or through the mail). Even if you’re headed to another legalized state, exporting isn’t an option you can take on. As for transport, it isn’t legal to transport an open package or container of marijuana/marijuana products. To legally transport marijuana, it must be kept in a child-proof container. Both drivers and passengers are prohibited from smoking inside of the vehicle.

Driving Under the Influence Is STILL Illegal

Just like drinking, driving under the influence is still very much illegal. Yes, recreational cannabis is legal, but the dangers of driving while influenced are still vital. It’s deemed unlawful to drive under the influence of marijuana. This is stated not only by the government but by California law enforcement as well. There are several penalties to be aware of for DUIs that can range from probation to jail time.

In many cases, marijuana DUIs are very similar to alcohol DUIs. Meaning that there will be increased penalties with every logged conviction. You’re always advised to consume these products responsibly instead of abusing the given law.

Being that marijuana is legal in California, limitations still present themselves as safety precautions for everyone. These laws will stand, so the best thing you can do is follow the law to the best of your ability.