New York cannabis rules, in plain English

Age and ID

You must be 21 or older to buy, possess or use adult-use cannabis in New York. Licensed dispensaries must check ID.

How much you can have

Adults 21+ can possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis (like vape oil or edibles).

Sharing and "gifting"

Adults can share cannabis for free with other adults 21+, within the possession limits. It's illegal to trade, barter or "gift" cannabis in exchange for something else — including "gifting" it while selling something like a t-shirt or sticker. Selling cannabis without a license is illegal.

Where you can use it

You can generally smoke or vape cannabis where tobacco smoking is allowed, like a private home or backyard. Landlords can ban smoking in apartment buildings, so check your lease.

Cannabis can't be consumed in motor vehicles, hookah or cigar bars, businesses, restaurants (including patios), on federal property (including public housing), or in most public and state parks and beaches.

Driving

Driving while high or impaired by cannabis is illegal in New York, and cannabis can't be consumed in a motor vehicle. Make a plan before you consume.

Growing at home

Adults 21+ may grow cannabis at home for personal use under OCM rules: up to 3 mature and 3 immature plants per person, and no more than 6 mature and 6 immature plants per household.

Crossing state lines

Cannabis remains illegal under federal law. Don't take it out of New York or onto federal property.

Buy licensed

Buy from licensed dispensaries. Licensed products are tested, labeled and packaged under state rules. Look for the official OCM dispensary verification sticker in the window.

Questions for the state? Call the Office of Cannabis Management at 1-888-OCM-5151 (1-888-626-5151) or visit cannabis.ny.gov.