Weed Laws in Rhode Island

Located in New England, Rhode Island is geographically the smallest state in the United States. This coastal state is bordered by Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the Atlantic Ocean. Its major cities – Providence, Cranston, and Warwick – are all near the coast. 

If you’re interested in fishing, it’s never hard to find a boat to charter or a new spot to try for the latest catch. If the beach is more your thing, check out Narragansett Beach. There, you can relax in the sun and sand or take a ferry to explore the state’s historic coastline.

Rhode Island is one of the original 13 colonies, and its history goes back to before the Revolutionary War. Take a historic boat tour of Providence, or enjoy a walking tour of the many historic sites going back to colonial times in Newport. Of course, Newport is most known for its gilded age mansions, which you can see on one of the city’s many trolley tours. You can even get a tour inside some of these historic mansions for a vision of the country’s industrial past.

Is Weed Legal in Rhode Island?

YES. Adults aged 21 and over can legally take marijuana for medicinal or recreational use in the state of Rhode Island.

Weed Legalization in Rhode Island

Rhode Island first banned cannabis for non-medical purposes in 1918 and joined the rest of the country in banning it outright in the first half of the twentieth century. The plant remained illegal in Rhode Island until 2006 when the state’s first medical marijuana legislation was passed. Three years following the passage of Rhode Island’s medical marijuana legislation, the state became one of the first to establish a formal dispensary program.

It took until the first half of 2022 for Rhode Island to legalize recreational use with the passage of The Rhode Island Cannabis Act. Rhode Island has joined its neighbors, Massachusetts and Connecticut, and most of the region in legalization. 

As of 2023, the consumption of cannabis is legal for medicinal and recreational use in the state of Rhode Island. Rhode Island’s recreational program is set to open in December of 2022.

Cannabis Tax in Rhode Island

The states levies a 20% tax on marijuana purchases, which covers:

• State excise tax - 10%
• Local excise tax - 3%
• Retail sales tax - 7%

Rhode Island does not charge additional taxes for medical cannabis purchases, which are only subject to the state’s 7% sales tax.

Is Cannabis Delivery Available in Rhode Island?

YES. Adults aged 21 and over can legally order marijuana delivery for medicinal or recreational use in the state of Rhode Island.

Where Can You Legally Use Weed in Rhode Island?

Cannabis can be legally used in the following areas in Rhode Island:

🗹 Private properties such as residences

🗹 Businesses with a commercial cannabis consumption license

🗹 Anywhere where smoking tobacco is allowed

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 Rhode Island?

Adults aged 21 and above may purchase and possess up to 1 ounce, or 28.35 grams, of cannabis flower (or an equivalent amount of cannabis concentrates).

Adults aged 21 and above may possess up to 10 ounces, or 238.49 grams, of cannabis flower in their home (or an equivalent amount of cannabis concentrates).

For the state’s home cultivation program:

• Maximum # of mature plants: 3
• Maximum # of immature plants: 3

For medicinal use:

• Dried cannabis:  2.5 ounces / 70.87 grams

For the state’s medical home cultivation program:

• Maximum # of mature plants: 12
• Maximum # of immature plants: 12

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 Rhode Island

How long is my medical marijuana card good for in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island medical marijuana cards are good for 1 year.

When should I renew my medical marijuana card in Rhode Island?

You will receive a renewal form 30 to 60 days before your card expires. If you don’t receive the form, you can request one.

How much does a medical marijuana card cost in Rhode Island?

The application fee for your Rhode Island medical marijuana card is $50.

Where can I purchase medical marijuana in Rhode Island?

You can purchase medical marijuana at any state-licensed medical dispensary in Rhode Island. Adults over 21 can purchase cannabis at any licensed recreational dispensary in the state.

Can I use my medical marijuana card from another state in Rhode Island?

Yes. Rhode Island accepts out-of-state medical marijuana cards.

Can I update my address on my Rhode Island medical marijuana card?

Yes, you can update your information by paying the state Department of Health a $10 fee.

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.