In Virginia, adults 21 and older may legally possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis in public. Possessing more than 1 pound is a felony offense.
Adult Use (Recreational)
Legal limit: Up to 1 ounce of marijuana in public.
Civil penalties: Possessing more than 1 ounce but less than 1 pound can result in fines or misdemeanor charges.
Felony threshold: Possessing more than 1 pound is a felony, with severe legal consequences.
Cultivation: Adults may grow up to 4 plants per household, but they must be labeled, kept out of public view, and intended only for personal use.
Medical Marijuana Patients
Patients with a valid written certification from a licensed practitioner can purchase cannabis from dispensaries.
Possession limits generally align with recreational rules (up to 1 ounce in public), but patients may also cultivate up to 4 plants per household for personal medical use.
Larger amounts may be permitted if specifically authorized by a practitioner, though dispensaries typically dispense within the 1-ounce public possession limit.