Washington and Colorado were the first states to legalize recreational cannabis (Initiative 502, 2012), with retail sales beginning July 8, 2014. Washington has one of the most mature and well-regulated cannabis markets in the country.
1 oz usable cannabis
Active
Not permitted
Limited
Medical Patients
3 oz
usable cannabis
Recreational (21+)
1 oz
usable cannabis
7g concentrate; 16 oz solid edibles; 72 oz liquid edibles
Home Cultivation Not Permitted
Home cultivation is not permitted for recreational users. Medical patients may grow up to 6 plants with authorization.
Card Cost
$1/year (voluntary)
Renewal
Annual
Processing Time
30 days
Dispensaries
600+
Medical authorization is voluntary — patients can purchase from recreational stores without a card.
Legalized
2012
Sales Started
2014
Age Requirement
21+
Purchase Limit
1 oz per transaction
Delivery
Allowed
Public Consumption
Prohibited.
Limited protections.
Washington does not have strong employment protections for cannabis users. Employers may maintain drug-free workplace policies.
Per se limit of 5 ng/mL THC in blood. Open container laws apply.
2022: Delivery services expanded
2023: Social equity licensing expanded
2025: Expungement program expanded
Official State Resource
Always verify current laws with the official state cannabis authority.