Cannabis Legal Status in Florida
Cannabis Laws in Florida
When Was It Legalized?
Medical marijuana was legalized in Florida in 2016 through Amendment 2 (Florida Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative), which passed with 71% voter approval. The Florida Legislature then enacted Senate Bill 8A in 2017, which established the regulatory framework for the state's medical marijuana program.
Who Can Use Medical Marijuana in Florida?
Florida residents diagnosed with one of the following qualifying conditions may be eligible for medical marijuana:
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Cancer
- Crohn's disease
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson's disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Chronic nonmalignant pain
- Terminal conditions
- Medical conditions comparable to those listed above
Recreational Use: Illegal + Limitations
Recreational marijuana use remains illegal in Florida. Possession of 20 grams or less is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Possession of more than 20 grams is a felony with more severe penalties.
Possession Limits
Medical marijuana patients in Florida may purchase up to a 70-day supply of cannabis (or a 35-day supply of smokable flower) at a time, with a maximum of 2.5 ounces of smokable flower in a 35-day period, as recommended by their physician.
Growing Laws
Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Florida, even for registered medical marijuana patients. All cannabis products must be purchased through state-licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs).
📌 Read More: U.S. Cannabis Laws by State – Full Guide
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida
Florida MMJ Card Application Process
✅ Step 1: Check if you qualify
You must be a Florida resident and have one of the qualifying conditions listed above. You'll need to provide proof of residency, such as a Florida ID or driver's license.
✅ Step 2: Visit a qualified physician
Schedule an appointment with a state-certified medical marijuana doctor who will evaluate your condition and determine if you qualify for medical cannabis treatment.
✅ Step 3: Submit your application
Once approved by a doctor, you'll need to apply for your medical marijuana card through the Florida Department of Health's Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). The application fee is $75.
✅ Step 4: Receive your MMJ card
Processing typically takes 10-15 business days. Once approved, you'll receive your medical marijuana card and can visit any licensed dispensary in Florida.
Where to Buy Cannabis in Florida 🏬
In Florida, medical marijuana can only be purchased from state-licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs). Here are some of the major dispensaries operating throughout the state:
Trulieve
Locations: Multiple locations across Florida
Contact: (844) 878-5438
Website: www.trulieve.com
Curaleaf
Locations: Throughout Florida
Contact: (877) 303-0741
Website: www.curaleaf.com
MÜV
Locations: Multiple cities in Florida
Contact: (833) 880-5420
Website: www.muvfl.com
CBD & Hemp Laws in Florida
Following the 2018 Farm Bill and Florida's SB 1020 (2019), hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal in Florida. These products can be purchased without a medical marijuana card from various retail locations and online.
💡 Read Also: CBD vs. THC – What's the Difference?
Cannabis & Driving Laws in Florida 🚗
Florida has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of cannabis. Even medical marijuana patients can be charged with DUI if they drive while impaired. Unlike alcohol, there is no legal limit for THC in your system while driving - any detectable amount can result in a DUI charge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis in Florida
You can travel within Florida with properly labeled medical marijuana purchased from a licensed dispensary if you are a qualified patient with a valid MMJ card. However, it's illegal to cross state lines with any cannabis products, as marijuana remains federally illegal.
Yes, edibles are available to medical marijuana patients in Florida. State regulations limit each edible product to a maximum of 10mg THC per serving and 200mg THC per package.
Possession of cannabis without a medical marijuana card is illegal in Florida. Possession of 20 grams or less is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Possession of more than 20 grams is a felony with more severe penalties.
Yes, many Florida dispensaries offer discounts to seniors, veterans, and those on disability. Discounts typically range from 10-30% off purchases. Check with individual dispensaries for their specific discount programs.
Florida Cannabis Laws Comparison Chart
Legal vs. Illegal Cannabis Products in Florida
| Product Type | Medical Patients | Recreational Users |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Marijuana | ✅ Legal | ❌ Illegal |
| Smokable Flower | ✅ Legal | ❌ Illegal |
| Edibles | ✅ Legal | ❌ Illegal |
| Concentrates | ✅ Legal | ❌ Illegal |
| Topicals | ✅ Legal | ❌ Illegal |
| Hemp CBD (<0.3% THC) | ✅ Legal | ✅ Legal |
| Home Growing | ❌ Illegal | ❌ Illegal |