Whether you’re looking to have a little fun or exploring the medicinal benefits of cannabis, we get it—navigating Michigan’s legal marijuana landscape can be confusing. You might even be wondering if cannabis is legal in Michigan to begin with, but don’t worry, you’re not alone.
That’s why we’re here to help you unravel the complexities of the state’s cannabis laws, decode the differences between medical and recreational marijuana, and guide you through the where, what, and how of cannabis consumption in Michigan.
Read on for our ultimate guide to cannabis shopping and consumption in the Great Lakes State.
Is Cannabis Legal in Michigan?
Yep! Marijuana is legal in Michigan for both medical and recreational use. Michigan legalized medical marijuana in 2008, followed by adult-use in 2018. In fact, Michigan was ahead of the game, being the first in the Midwest to give the green light to both.
Additionally, it’s important to note that THC isomers like delta-8 and delta-10, along with CBD derived from hemp, are legal in the state of Michigan.
Medical Marijuana in Michigan
Now, let’s talk medical marijuana. While cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, Michigan recognizes over 20 medical conditions that qualify for the state’s medical marijuana program, including Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, cerebral palsy, and Crohn’s disease. In 2018, the most commonly cited reason for obtaining medical marijuana in Michigan was severe and chronic pain.
To access medical marijuana in Michigan, individuals must be 18 years of age or older, have a qualifying medical condition, and obtain a medical cannabis card from the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP). Evaluation for medical marijuana in Michigan can be completed in person with a doctor or online via telemedicine.
Michigan’s medical marijuana program allows patients to purchase up to 2.5 oz of cannabis products and even grow up to 12 plants at home. With a valid medical card and photo ID, you’ll be all set to head to the dispensary. In addition to this, Michigan and several other states have reciprocity agreements, enabling medical patients to legally purchase cannabis when traveling to states beyond Michigan, and vice versa. Patients under the age of 18 are required to have a designated adult caregiver in order to obtain medical marijuana in Michigan.
For more info on Michigan’s registration process, visit their website.
Recreational Marijuana Regulations in Michigan
Is recreational marijuana legal in Michigan? Yes! Adults who are 21 and older may purchase up to 2.5 oz of recreational marijuana in Michigan. On top of that, recreational cannabis consumers are allowed to possess a maximum of 15 grams of marijuana concentrate at any given time.
Michigan permits the cultivation of up to 12 plants within a private residence, out of sight from the public. Including what they grow, adult-use consumers can keep up to 10 oz of cannabis at their residences.
And, we’ve got exciting news for those just visiting: out-of-state residents can also purchase cannabis from Michigan dispensaries as long as they are of age and have a valid photo ID.
Keep in mind it’s still illegal to possess or consume cannabis in public spaces, drive under the influence, or cross state lines with it. Violating laws governing marijuana use in Michigan can result in legal prosecution in addition to hefty fines.
Michigan’s Legal Marijuana: Tips for Shopping and Consumption
Ready to shop? We’ve got some tips for you.
Shopping for marijuana is totally legal in Michigan as long as consumers follow certain guidelines. For medical marijuana patients and recreational consumers in Michigan alike, adults 21+ are allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces (oz) of cannabis products.
In Michigan, individuals with medical cannabis cards can purchase a maximum of 2.5 oz of cannabis daily, with a monthly limit of 10 oz. State regulations grant medical marijuana patients and their primary caregivers the allowance to possess up to:
- 16 oz of solid cannabis products
- 7 grams of gaseous cannabis products
- 36 fl oz of liquid cannabis products
Your immediate possession is limited to 2.5 oz in public, requiring storage for the remainder at home.
Consumption for both medical and recreational cannabis consumers is generally only allowed in private residences. Beyond the home, public consumption is prohibited; avoid consuming cannabis openly in parks, streets, and other public spaces. This even means your front porch—stick to the backyard.
Never keep cannabis in your car, drive under the influence of cannabis, or cross state lines with it.
As of 2022, the state opened its first cannabis consumption lounge, Hot Box Social. These lounges are designated, innovative commercial spaces poised to reshape the landscape of cannabis consumption in the state. Followed by the unveiling of Kalkushka Lounge and Rolling Embers, Michigan is now home to three cannabis consumption lounges, providing a uniquely social setting to kick back and indulge with like-minded Michiganders!
Cannabis Legalization Beyond Michigan
As of 2023, 24 U.S. states have legalized recreational or adult-use marijuana, and 38 U.S. states have implemented some kind of medical cannabis program.
Ohio, Minnesota, and Delaware recently joined the growing list of states to legalize recreational cannabis in 2023. Individuals in states like Florida, Nebraska, Tennessee, and South Dakota are advocating for legalization in 2024 by working to get it on the ballot.
On the federal level, advocates, including six Governors across the U.S. continue to fight for cannabis to be rescheduled from a Schedule I substance. Additionally, there has recently been an increasing emphasis on social equity measures within legalization policies, marking a much needed step towards diversity and inclusion within the cannabis industry.
We’re Your One-Stop Shop for Cannabis in Michigan
Now that you know cannabis is legal in Michigan…Need to stock up? Exclusive serves Michiganders with the state’s very best bud, with locations across the Great Lakes state. Visit the Exclusive dispensary nearest you today to explore our extensive selection of the state’s hottest brands and products. We look forward to seeing you!