How Many Pot Plants Can You Have in Virginia?

Virginia is one of the many US states that has moved towards legalizing the use and cultivation of cannabis. If you are a resident of Virginia who is considering growing cannabis, it is important to understand the state's laws and regulations surrounding the number of pot plants you are allowed to grow.

Medical Cannabis in Virginia

As of July 2021, Virginia's medical cannabis program is up and running. Patients with qualifying medical conditions may apply for a medical cannabis card, which will allow them to purchase and possess certain amounts of marijuana. However, home cultivation of medical cannabis is still illegal in the state.

Recreational Cannabis in Virginia

Virginia recently passed a law that legalizes recreational cannabis use for adults aged 21 and over. However, the law does not go into effect until July 1, 2024. Until then, recreational use of cannabis is still illegal in Virginia.

Cultivating Cannabis in Virginia

Home cultivation of cannabis is legal in Virginia for medical cannabis patients, but not for recreational users (until the law goes into effect on July 1, 2024). Medical cannabis patients are allowed to grow up to four plants per household, but there are certain restrictions.

First, the plants must be grown in a locked space that is not visible from a public place. Second, the plants cannot be grown within 1,000 feet of a school. Finally, medical cannabis patients must obtain a permit from the Virginia Board of Pharmacy in order to grow their own plants.

Penalties for Growing More Than the Allowed Number of Plants

If you grow more than four cannabis plants in Virginia as a medical cannabis patient, or if you grow any cannabis plants as a recreational user (before July 1, 2024), you could face legal consequences.

Currently, growing any amount of cannabis in Virginia is considered a felony with a penalty of 5 to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. However, the newly passed law decriminalizes the possession of up to an ounce of cannabis, reducing the penalty to a maximum fine of $25.

Conclusion

If you are a medical cannabis patient in Virginia, you are allowed to grow up to four plants per household as long as you follow certain restrictions and obtain a permit from the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. If you are a recreational user, you will have to wait until July 1, 2024, to legally grow cannabis at home. It is important to stay informed about the changing laws surrounding cannabis in Virginia to avoid any legal consequences.