Ohio became a recreational cannabis state in 2023 when voters approved Issue 2 by a 57-43 margin, with adult-use sales beginning in August 2024. The state allows home cultivation (6 plants per person, 12 per household), has reasonable possession limits (2.5 oz), and operates both medical and recreational markets. Ohio charges a 10% tax on recreational cannabis while medical cannabis remains tax-free. The state has implemented social equity provisions and allows both medical patients and recreational users to access dispensaries. Ohio represents successful cannabis legalization through ballot initiative with rapid implementation of retail sales.
For medical marijuana: 1) Get certified by a licensed Ohio physician for a qualifying condition, 2) Register with the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program online, 3) Submit required documents and pay fees, 4) Receive medical marijuana registry identification card upon approval. The process typically takes several weeks.
Medical marijuana qualifying conditions include: AIDS, ALS, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, Crohn's disease, epilepsy or seizure disorder, fibromyalgia, glaucoma, hepatitis C, IBD, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, PTSD, sickle cell anemia, spinal cord disease or injury, Tourette's syndrome, traumatic brain injury, ulcerative colitis, and terminal illness. The state may add additional conditions.
The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC) oversees both medical and recreational cannabis programs. The DCC handles licensing, regulation, compliance, and enforcement for cannabis cultivation, processing, testing, and retail operations throughout the state.
Yes, medical marijuana patients must register with the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program to receive a registry identification card. This card provides access to medical dispensaries, higher possession limits, and certain legal protections. Recreational users don't need registration.
Medical patients access cannabis through licensed medical dispensaries with their medical marijuana card. Recreational users 21+ can purchase from licensed adult-use dispensaries. Ohio has dispensaries throughout the state, with many serving both medical and recreational customers since adult-use sales began in August 2024.
Medical marijuana registration costs around $50 for Ohio residents. Cards are typically valid for one year and must be renewed with updated physician certifications. Some patients may qualify for reduced fees based on participation in certain assistance programs.
