Navigating New York’s Cannabis Growing Laws: What Home Growers Need to Know

New York State has legalized adult-use cannabis, including home cultivation. However, there are specific laws and restrictions in place to ensure safe and responsible growing. Whether you’re new to cannabis cultivation or already have a green thumb, here’s everything you need to know about growing cannabis at home in the Empire State.

Who Can Grow Cannabis in New York?

Only adults aged 21 and older can legally grow cannabis plants at home.

How Many Plants Can You Grow?

✅ Per Person: Up to 3 mature and 3 immature plants

✅ Per Household: Maximum of 6 mature and 6 immature plants, regardless of how many adults live there.

Mature vs. Immature Plants:

• Mature: Flowering or capable of producing usable cannabis.
• Immature: Vegetative stage, not yet flowering.

Where Can You Grow?

• Private Residences Only
• Not Visible to the Public - Plants must be grown out of public view (no backyard grows that neighbors or passersby can see).
• Secured Locations - Grow areas must be locked or secured to prevent unauthorized access, especially by minors.

Selling Your Homegrown Cannabis

❌ Selling homegrown cannabis is illegal.

✅ Personal Use Only - You can share cannabis with other adults (21+), but you cannot sell it.

Public Possession Rules

Adults can possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower or 24 grams of concentrate in public.

Storage at Home

• No more than 5 pounds of cannabis flower stored at home.
• Keep your cannabis secure and away from minors.

Additional Rules to Keep in Mind

• No use of cannabis in motor vehicles or in any location where tobacco smoking is prohibited.
• Home cultivation must comply with local building and safety codes (no makeshift electrical setups or fire hazards).
• Landlords can restrict cannabis growing on their properties through lease agreements.

Stay Updated

New York’s cannabis program is evolving, so it’s essential to stay informed about updates from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Regulations can change, and new guidance may be released.

👉 Check the latest from OCM: Office of Cannabis Management

👉 Local ordinances may apply! Always check with your town or city for additional restrictions.

HomeGrow Helpline is here to help you understand and navigate these regulations! Our team specializes in cannabis growing tips and legal guidance so you can grow confidently and safely.