Cannabis in North Carolina

North Carolina has not legalized medical or adult-use cannabis. Currently, residents can only access high-CBD, low-THC oil for medical use if they qualify.

Overview of Key North Carolina Cannabis Laws

Is medical cannabis allowed? Yes (high-CBD, low-THC only)

Is adult-use cannabis allowed? No

Personal Laws

North Carolina has decriminalized cannabis under certain limits. Individuals may possess up to 0.5 oz. of cannabis and face a misdemeanor charge plus a fine of up to $200.

Personal Possession

Overall Possession: Up to 0.5 oz. of cannabis (a misdemeanor with a fine up to $200)

Personal Growing

Personal growing is not allowed in North Carolina.

Medical Cannabis Patient Qualification and Registry

Patients in North Carolina may only get access to high-CBD, low-THC marijuana if a neurologist determines they have intractable epilepsy that did not respond to three or more treatment options overseen by a neurologist.

Qualifying medical conditions include:

• Intractable epilepsy that does not respond to three or more treatment options overseen by a neurologist

Business Laws

There is no regulatory structure or active cannabis program in North Carolina.

License Types

N/A

License Fees

N/A

License Timeline

N/A

Testing

N/A

Training

N/A

Learn More about Cannabis in North Carolina and How to Work or Start a Business in the Cannabis Industry

Leafy Green Agency offers a variety of certification seminars for people who want to start businesses, find jobs, get promotions, or invest in the cannabis industry across the country. Follow the link to register for an upcoming seminar.

Sources and More Information

• NORML
• Marijuana Policy Project
• National Cannabis Industry Association
• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
• North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Data current as of 1/3/20.