Is cannabis legal in North Carolina?

Q: Is cannabis legal in North Carolina?

Cannabis in North Carolina is restricted. Cannabis is illegal in North Carolina for both recreational and medical use, and there is no comprehensive medical program. Only hemp products under 0.3% THC, such as CBD, are legal. An advisory council recommended THC legalization in April 2026, but no law has passed.

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NORTH CAROLINA · CANNABIS

Cannabis

Restricted: Cannabis is illegal in North Carolina for both recreational and medical use, and there is no comprehensive medical program.

Restricted

Summary

Cannabis is illegal in North Carolina for both recreational and medical use, and there is no comprehensive medical program. Only hemp products under 0.3% THC, such as CBD, are legal. An advisory council recommended THC legalization in April 2026, but no law has passed.

Source: https://www.ncleg.gov/enactedlegislation/statutes/pdf/bysection/chapter_90/gs_90-95.pdf · Updated July 13, 2026

North Carolina Cannabis topics

Cannabis Legal Status in North Carolina →Restricted
Cannabis is illegal in North Carolina for both recreational and medical use, and there is no comprehensive medical program.
Possession Limits in North Carolina →Restricted
Possessing cannabis is illegal in North Carolina, and up to 0.5 ounce is a Class 3 misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $200 and no jail.
Home Cultivation in North Carolina →Restricted
Home cultivation is illegal in North Carolina and is a criminal offense.
Public Use in North Carolina →Restricted
Cannabis use in public is not allowed in North Carolina — possession and use are illegal.
Buying Cannabis in North Carolina →Restricted
North Carolina has no legal cannabis market and no dispensaries — only hemp and CBD products under 0.3% THC may be sold.

Other North Carolina laws

Cannabis in nearby states

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