Massachusetts has a thriving cannabis scene, from dispensaries stocked with high-quality flower to innovative edibles, concentrates, and more. If you’re a complete newbie or just new to the state’s legal market and you’re curious about cannabis in Massachusetts, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cannabis in the Bay State so you can take part in the green scene.
Massachusetts’ Cannabis Laws
Before you step into the world of legal cannabis in Massachusetts, it’s important to understand the rules. The state has clear guidelines on who can buy, possess, and consume cannabis, as well as how it can be transported.
Here’s what you need to know:
Age Restrictions
If you want to purchase or grow cannabis for personal use, you must be at least 21 years old. When visiting a dispensary, be sure to bring a valid government-issued ID to show proof of age.
Possession Limits
Massachusetts allows adults to possess up to one ounce of cannabis in public. At home, you can store up to 10 ounces, but anything over an ounce should be kept in a secure, locked location. This rule keeps cannabis out of the hands of kids.
Cultivation Rules
If you prefer to grow your own cannabis, Massachusetts residents can grow up to six plants per person, with a maximum of 12 plants per household.
Remember: Your plants must be cultivated in an area that’s not visible from a public space and secured to prevent unauthorized access.
Public Consumption
The law prohibits consuming cannabis in public, whether smoking, vaping, or eating an edible. This means no lighting up in parks, on sidewalks, or outside a dispensary.
If you’re looking for a legal place to enjoy your cannabis, private property is your best bet. Some cannabis-friendly lodging options and social consumption lounges may be available in the future.
Transportation
When transporting cannabis, you must keep it in a sealed container and store it in an area of the vehicle that’s not easily accessible to the driver, such as the trunk. Having an open container in the passenger area is illegal and can result in penalties similar to open container laws for alcohol.
Also, remember driving under the influence is strictly prohibited, let alone seriously dangerous.
Purchasing Cannabis
Not all cannabis retailers are created equal, so it’s important to shop at a licensed dispensary to make sure you’re getting safe, tested products. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission has a tool to help you locate state-approved dispensaries near you. Simply search for licensed retailers and choose one that fits your needs, whether it’s convenience, product selection, or knowledgeable staff.
What To Expect at a Dispensary
Walking into a dispensary for the first time might feel a little overwhelming, but the process is straightforward.
Here’s what to expect:
- Show your ID to prove you are 21 or older.
- Check out the menu, which could include flower, edibles, concentrates, disposable vapes or cartridges, and topicals.
- Labels include details like THC and CBD content, terpene profiles, and recommended dosage. If you’re not sure, ask a budtender for help.
- When you check out, some dispensaries may require cash. There’s often an ATM in the store, but it’s best to check ahead of time so you’re prepared.
Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana Program
Massachusetts has a well-established Medical Use of Marijuana Program for patients who need cannabis for therapeutic purposes.
While adult-use cannabis is widely available, the medical program offers several advantages, including stronger products and tax savings.
Eligibility and Registration
Not everyone qualifies for a medical marijuana card. Patients must have a qualifying medical condition as determined by a certified healthcare provider.
Some of the conditions that may make you eligible include:
- Chronic pain
- PTSD
- Cancer
- Multiple sclerosis
- Glaucoma
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Other debilitating conditions as determined by a healthcare provider
To apply for a Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Card, follow these steps:
- Get Certified: Schedule an appointment with a state-approved healthcare provider who can evaluate your condition and determine if medical cannabis is right for you.
- Register Online: Once certified, you’ll receive instructions on how to register with the Cannabis Control Commission’s Medical Use of Marijuana Program.
- Receive Your Card: After approval, you’ll get your medical marijuana card, which allows you to purchase cannabis from licensed medical dispensaries in the state.
Benefits of Medical Use
There are several perks to becoming a registered medical marijuana patient in Massachusetts, including:
- Access to Higher Potency Products: Medical dispensaries offer stronger THC concentrations and specialized products tailored to patients’ needs.
- Tax Exemptions: Unlike recreational cannabis purchases, medical marijuana is not subject to state and local sales taxes, making it a more affordable option for patients who need consistent treatment.
- Greater Purchase and Possession Limits: Medical patients may be able to purchase and possess more cannabis than recreational users, ensuring they have enough supply to manage their condition. Plus, caregivers can register on behalf of underage patients who may benefit from medical cannabis.
Your Massachusetts Cannabis Journey Starts at Mayflower
Navigating the world of cannabis in Massachusetts doesn’t have to be complicated. Mayflower Dispensaries are here to help! With a welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and a curated selection of high-quality cannabis products, Mayflower is the perfect place to begin your journey.
Find a Mayflower near you to ask questions and find the right products for you, or explore our online menu to get an idea of what we have on our shelves. Discover what Massachusetts cannabis has to offer!
The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
