Cannabis
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, pot or dope, is a plant that contains a chemical called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC can cause a mind-altering “high”. Cannabis can be smoked, vaped or consumed as edibles. Edibles are products made with cannabis that you can eat or drink. Edibles are often available in cookies, chocolate, gummy candy and beverages. THC can effect your brain, lungs, heart and mental health. Learn more about cannabis and personal health.
Cannabis also contains a chemical called cannabidiol (CBD), CBD does not cause a "high" and is currently used in various products including food, beverages, oils and lotions.
Recreational cannabis use is legal for people 21 and older
Minnesota is the 23rd state in the nation to legalize recreational cannabis use for people 21 and older.
Things to know
- Cannabis can be used by people 21 and older on private property, private residences and places with approved licenses or an event permit.
- Cannabis cannot be used when operating a motor vehicle.
- Smoking cannabis is prohibited anywhere smoking commercial tobacco is prohibited. Smoking or vaping adult-use cannabis products is prohibited in a multifamily housing building. Ramsey County Smoking and Commercial Tobacco Use Ordinance.
Cannabis law for adults 21 and older
On Aug. 1, 2023, adult use of cannabis became legal in Minnesota. This law legalizes and decriminalizes adult-use cannabis, expunges prior convictions, and establishes a statewide regulatory framework for the new industry.
- The legislation allows people age 21 and older to possess or transport up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower, 8 grams of concentrate and 800 milligrams of edible product (including lower-potency hemp-derived product). An adult may also possess up to two pounds of cannabis flower in a private residence.
- People age 21 and older can grow up to eight cannabis plants, with no more than four being mature.
- Minnesota will continue to allow the sale of certain certified hemp and edibles to adults 21 years and older. Learn more about Statute 151.72.
Public Health's position on cannabis
Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health has developed a position paper on considerations for regulating a new legal cannabis market that effectively addresses racial equity, protects the public’s health and outlines key public health priorities for the county.
Get help - overdose/poisonings
If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of THC poisoning, call 911 immediately.
THC poisoning/overdose most often occurs when someone eats too much of a THC infused food or drink product.
- Children and pets are more likely to experience THC poisonings because edibles often look like candy or treats and they eat too many.
- If a child or pet eats or drinks a THC product, regardless of symptoms, immediately call a medical professional, 911 or MN Poison Control.
The MN Poison Control System has poison experts available 24/7 for all poison emergencies and questions. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Call 1-800-222-1222
- Visit mnpoison.org/
Signs of poisoning:
- Sleepiness.
- Rapid heart rate.
- Nausea/vomiting.
- Slurred speech.
Learn more
Learn more about cannabis in the state of Minnesota.
- Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management - State of Minnesota
Health information:
- Preventing Accidental Poisonings of Hemp-derived THC Products - MDH
- Health Effects of Marijuana (Cannabis) - CDC
- Marijuana (Cannabis) FAQ - CDC
Medical cannabis (MDH):