Weed Laws in North Dakota

North Dakota is located in the northern Midwest, just north of South Dakota and south of the Canadian border. Despite the state’s considerable size, geographically, it’s home to just over 760,000 people, making it the fourth-least populated state in the nation.

North Dakota is rich in oil and gas resources, providing ample employment opportunities for its residents. As a result, North Dakota has some of the lowest unemployment numbers in the country.

North Dakota first became a US territory following the Louisiana Purchase. The state gets its name from the Dakota Sioux and Lakota Native Americans that lived in the area for hundreds of years before the arrival of European settlers. North Dakota and South Dakota were both given statehood in 1889.

If you’re planning to visit North Dakota, be sure to check out some of the state’s most notable attractions, like the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Enchanted Highway, the Fort Mandan State Recreational Area, the National Buffalo Museum, the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum, the Maah Daah Hey Tray, Fargo Air Museum, and Lewis and Clark State Park.

Is Weed Legal in North Dakota?

YES, but only for medicinal purposes in the state of North Dakota, for people with a licensed medical marijuana card.

Weed Legalization in North Dakota

North Dakota has been struggling toward cannabis legalization for the better part of the past decade. While medical cannabis is legal in the state, the fight for recreational legalization continues, and a measure will be on the ballot for voters to decide in November 2022.

North Dakota’s road toward legalization began in 2015, when a bill was put before the state’s legislature to legalize medical cannabis. Unfortunately, the bill failed. 

In 2016, another attempt was made, this time, much more successfully. North Dakota voters approved Measure 5 with 63.79% in favor of legalizing medical cannabis in the state. North Dakota’s medical cannabis program officially started in 2018.

Following a failed attempt to legalize recreational cannabis, the state approved legislation in 2019 to partially decriminalize cannabis possession. The law changed the penalty for possession of up to one-half ounce of cannabis to a fine rather than jail time.

Another attempt was made to legalize in 2020, which also fell short. Now, activists have managed to get the question of recreational cannabis legalization onto the 2022 ballot.

As of 2022, the consumption of cannabis is legal for medicinal use in the state of North Dakota.

Cannabis Tax in North Dakota

The states levies a 5% tax on medical marijuana purchases, which covers:

• Retail sales tax

Is Cannabis Delivery Available in North Dakota?

YES, but only for medicinal purposes in the state of North Dakota, for people with a licensed medical marijuana card.

Where Can You Legally Use Weed in North Dakota?

Cannabis can be legally used in the following areas in North Dakota:

🗹 Private properties such as residences

Cannabis CANNOT be consumed in:

X Public spaces

X Businesses that lack a license for commercial cannabis consumption

X Motorized vehicles in motion, for both driver and passengers

X Federal land, like national parks

What are the Restrictions on Cannabis Possession in North Dakota?

Adults aged 21 and above will be charged with a criminal infraction and pay a fine for possession of up to:

• Cannabis:  0.5 ounces / 14.17 grams

North Dakota does not permit home cultivation of cannabis.

For medicinal use (per 30-day period):

• Dried cannabis:  2.5 ounces / 70.87 grams
• Cannabis concentrates: 4000mg THC

During vehicular transportation:

• Cannabis may either be in a sealed container or
• Stored in the trunk of the vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions About Marijuana in North Dakota

How long is my North Dakota medical cannabis card good for?

North Dakota medical cannabis cards are valid for 1 year.

Who can recommend medical cannabis in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, any medical doctor (MD), doctor of osteopathy (DO), nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant can recommend medical cannabis.

Does North Dakota accept out-of-state medical cannabis cards?

No. North Dakota only allows residents of the state to participate in the program.

How much does a medical cannabis card cost in North Dakota?

The application fee for your medical cannabis card is $50 in North Dakota.

How long does it take to get my medical cannabis card in North Dakota?

It typically takes 2-4 weeks to get your medical cannabis card in North Dakota.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.