Weed Laws in Vermont
Vermont is one of the northernmost New England states, bordering Canada. The state’s nickname, the Green Mountain State, is actually the origin of the name Vermont. When it was first colonized by the French in the 1640’s, Samuel de Champlain–who Lake Champlain is also named after–called the land “Verd Mont,” which translates to Green Mountain in French. The name became Vermont when the English moved in, making the area one of the 13 British colonies that would become the first states. Vermont is home to only around 700,000 people.
Vermont is a must-visit destination for skiers and snowboarders in the Northeast. The state boasts some of the best skiing on the eastern seaboard and is home to multiple top-tier ski resorts. If you plan on visiting Vermont to ski, check out Killington Ski Area, Stowe Mountain Resort, Mount Snow, Jay Peak Resort, Sugarbush Resort, or Mount Mansfield.
Vermont’s natural attractions go beyond skiing. The state is also home to Green Mountain National Forest, Lake Champlain, the Kingdom Trails, Elmore State Park, and Little River State Park. For more indoor activities, you can visit the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington.
Is Weed Legal in Vermont ?
YES. Adults aged 21 and over can legally take marijuana for medicinal or recreational use in the state of Vermont. Currently, there are only five medical dispensaries in the state, but the first recreational dispensaries are set to open in October.
Weed Legalization in Vermont
Vermont’s road to legalization has been something of a long one, starting back in 2004, when the state passed 2004’s Senate Bill 76 that officially legalized medical cannabis in the state.
Then, in 2013, Vermont took its next step toward legalization with the statewide decriminalization of possession of 2oz or less of cannabis. HB200 replaced all criminal penalties associated with small amounts of cannabis with civil penalties.
An attempt was made to legalize recreational cannabis in 2017 that nearly passed. The bill made it all the way to the governor’s desk before being vetoed. The state legislature didn’t wait long to modify the bill and reintroduce it in 2018. H.511 passed early in 2018 and went into effect that July, legalizing recreational cannabis in Vermont.
Unfortunately, H.511 didn’t include provisions to start up Vermont’s recreational cannabis market. It took until 2020 for the legislation to pass that would establish the framework for the state’s recreational sales. Sales are expected to begin in October of 2022.
As of 2023, the consumption of cannabis is legal for medicinal and recreational use in the state of Vermont.
Cannabis Tax in Vermont
The states levies a 20% tax on marijuana purchases, which covers:
- Excise tax - 14%
- Retail sales tax - 6%
Medical cannabis is not taxed in the State of Vermont.
One third of the revenue collected from the cannabis excise tax, up to $10 million, goes to funding drug misuse prevention programs.
Is Cannabis Delivery Available in Vermont?
NO, cannabis delivery is not available for either recreational or medicinal purposes in the state of Vermont, though the legislature hasn’t ruled it out in the future.
Where Can You Legally Use Weed in Vermont?
Cannabis can be legally used in the following areas in Vermont:
🗹 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 Vermont?
Adults aged 21 and above may purchase and possess up to:
- Cannabis: 1 ounces / 28.35 grams
- Cannabis concentrates: 0.17 ounces / 5 grams
For transfer to another adult:
- Dried cannabis: 1 ounces / 28.35 grams
- Cannabis concentrates: 0.17 ounces / 5 grams
For the state’s home cultivation program:
- Maximum # mature of plants: 2
- Maximum # immature of plants: 4
For medicinal use:
- Dried cannabis: 2 ounces / 56.69 grams
- Maximum # mature of plants: 2
- Maximum # immature of plants: 7
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 Vermont
What are the qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Vermont?
The following conditions can qualify you for medical cannabis in Vermont:
- Cancer
- Multiple sclerosis
- HIV or AIDS
- Glaucoma
- Crohn's disease
- Parkinson's disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (requires the Mental Health Care Provider Form)
How much does it cost to register for a medical cannabis card in Vermont?
The registration fee for a medical cannabis card in Vermont is $50.
How much does it cost to renew my medical cannabis card in Vermont?
It costs $50 to renew your medical cannabis registration in Vermont.
How long does it take to receive my medical cannabis card in Vermont?
It can take up to 30 days to receive your medical cannabis registration in Vermont.
Who can recommend medical cannabis in Vermont?
You can be evaluated by and receive a recommendation for medical cannabis from a medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, naturopathic physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant in Vermont.
Where can I get medical cannabis in Vermont?
Registered patients can get their medical cannabis at any state-license dispensary in Vermont.
How long is my Vermont medical cannabis card good for?
Medical cannabis cards are valid for 1 year in Vermont.
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.
