Cannabis is Legal in Massachusetts
Recreational since 2016, dispensaries since 2018
Age Requirement
21+
Valid government ID required
Possession Limit
1 oz
In public / on your person
At Home
10 oz
Stored in your residence
Legal Possession Limits
| Product Type | In Public | At Home |
|---|---|---|
| Flower | 1 ounce (28g) | 10 ounces |
| Concentrates | 5 grams | No specific limit* |
| Edibles | 500mg THC total | No specific limit* |
| Plants (home grow) | N/A | 6 plants per person, 12 per household |
*Must be purchased from a licensed dispensary and kept in original packaging at home
Important Notes
- • Keep products in original dispensary packaging when possible
- • You cannot sell or gift more than 1 oz to another adult
- • Homegrown cannabis cannot be sold (personal use only)
- • Federal lands (national parks) follow federal law where cannabis remains illegal
What to Expect at a Massachusetts Dispensary
Your First Visit
Bring Valid ID
Government-issued photo ID proving you're 21+. Passport, driver's license, or state ID all work.
Check In
You'll check in with a receptionist who verifies your ID. First-timers may fill out a brief form.
Browse the Menu
Most dispensaries have digital menus or paper menus. Some allow you to pre-order online.
Talk to a Budtender
Staff are there to help! Tell them your experience level, desired effects, and preferred method.
Make Your Purchase
Pay at the register. Keep your receipt—it proves legal purchase if ever needed.
Payment Options
Due to federal banking restrictions, payment options vary by dispensary:
Taxes & Pricing
6.25%
State Sales Tax
10.75%
Cannabis Excise Tax
0-3%
Local Tax (varies)
Total tax is typically 17-20%. Prices listed are usually pre-tax. Medical patients pay reduced taxes.
Where You Can (and Can't) Consume
Legal to Consume
Private residence (your home)
If you own or rent
Licensed consumption lounges
Where available
Private property with permission
Owner must consent
Illegal to Consume
In a motor vehicle
Even as a passenger
Any public place
Streets, parks, beaches, etc.
Workplaces
Even if employer allows
Within 500 ft of a school
K-12 and colleges
Federal property
Post offices, courthouses, etc.
Renters & Landlords
Landlords and property managers CAN prohibit cannabis use on their property, even if it's legal in Massachusetts. Always check your lease. Many apartments prohibit smoking of any kind but may allow edibles or vaping. Property owners can also prohibit home cultivation.
Medical Cannabis Cards
Benefits of a Medical Card
Lower Taxes
No 10.75% excise tax, no local taxes
Higher Limits
Up to 10 oz every 60 days
Age 18+
Available for patients 18-20
Stronger Products
Access to higher-potency options
How to Get a Medical Card
Register with CCC
Create an account at mass.gov/medical-marijuana-program
See a Certifying Physician
Must have a qualifying condition (anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD, etc.)
Get Certified
Doctor enters certification into the state system
Pay Fee & Receive Card
$50 annual fee. Card arrives in 1-2 weeks.
Fee Waivers: Veterans, patients with documented financial hardship, and MassHealth members may qualify for reduced or waived registration fees.
Traveling with Cannabis
Never Cross State Lines
It is a federal crime to transport cannabis across state lines, even between two states where it's legal. This includes driving to Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, or any other state.
Traveling Within Massachusetts
- Keep cannabis in a closed container (original packaging is best)
- Store in trunk or locked glove box, not within reach of driver
- Keep receipt as proof of legal purchase
- Never consume while driving or as a passenger
- Open containers in the passenger area are illegal
Flying from Logan Airport
TSA is a federal agency. While they don't actively search for cannabis, if they find it during a security screening, they are required to report it to local law enforcement.
Massachusetts State Police at Logan have discretion but may confiscate products and issue warnings or citations.
Our recommendation: Don't fly with cannabis. It's not worth the risk. Purchase at your destination if it's legal there.