Illinois legalized recreational cannabis in June 2019 (HB 1438), with sales beginning January 1, 2020. Illinois has one of the most comprehensive social equity programs in the country, with significant provisions for communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs.
30g flower
Active
Not permitted
Moderate
Medical Patients
2.5 oz
per 14-day period
Recreational (21+)
30g
flower
5g concentrate; 500mg THC in infused products
Home Cultivation Not Permitted
Home cultivation is not permitted for recreational users. Medical patients may grow 5 plants.
Card Cost
$50/year ($25 for veterans)
Renewal
Annual
Processing Time
30 days
Dispensaries
100+
Legalized
2019
Sales Started
2020
Age Requirement
21+
Purchase Limit
30g per transaction
Delivery
Allowed
Public Consumption
Prohibited. Must consume in private.
Strong social equity provisions. 25% of cannabis tax revenue goes to communities disproportionately impacted by drug laws.
Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act includes some off-duty use protections.
Employers cannot take adverse action against employees solely for off-duty cannabis use. However, employers may still prohibit on-duty use and impairment, and may maintain drug-free workplace policies for safety-sensitive positions.
DUI laws apply. No per se THC limit — impairment standard. Oral fluid testing may be used.
2020: Recreational sales launched January 1
2021: Social equity license lottery conducted
2023: Expungement program expanded
2025: Delivery services expanded
Official State Resource
Always verify current laws with the official state cannabis authority.