Navigating Rhode Island's Cannabis Growing Laws: What Home Growers Need to Know

Rhode Island has taken steps to allow adults to cultivate cannabis for personal use under specific guidelines. Let’s break down what you need to know if you’re considering starting a home grow in the Ocean State.

Who Can Grow Cannabis in Rhode Island?

• Age Requirement: You must be 21 years old or older to legally cultivate cannabis at home.
• Residency: You need to be a Rhode Island resident to grow cannabis legally.

How Many Plants Can You Grow?

Under Rhode Island law, adults are allowed to grow cannabis at home with strict limits. Up to 6 plants total (3 mature/flowering) (3 immature/non-flowering). This means your personal grow can never exceed 6 plants in total, with no more than 3 flowering at any time.

Household Limitations: These plant limits are per household, not per person. So, even if multiple adults live in the same home, the limit remains at 6 plants total.

Where Can You Grow?

You must grow your cannabis indoors in a secured and enclosed space that is not visible to the public. Think of a locked room, a grow tent, or an outdoor greenhouse with secured fencing and privacy screens.

Can You Sell the Cannabis You Grow?

No. Homegrown cannabis in Rhode Island is strictly for personal use only. Selling your homegrown cannabis or giving it away in exchange for goods, services, or money is illegal.

Public Possession Limits

• Adults 21+ can possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis in public.
• At home, you’re allowed to store up to 10 ounces of cannabis, provided it’s securely stored

Important Tips for Staying Compliant

1️⃣ Keep your plants secured.

Unauthorized access (especially by minors) can lead to legal trouble.

2️⃣ Stay within the plant count.

Going over the 6-plant limit is a violation of state law.

3️⃣ No sharing for compensation.

Even if you don’t call it “selling,” bartering cannabis is still against the law.

4️⃣ Label your cannabis.

Clearly mark your containers and storage to avoid misunderstandings.

Medical Cannabis Program

Rhode Island also has a medical cannabis program, which allows registered patients and caregivers to cultivate cannabis under slightly different guidelines:

• Medical patients/caregivers may grow up to 12 mature and 12 immature plants with proper registration.
• These plants must be grown in a registered grow location and properly tagged.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violating Rhode Island’s home grow laws can lead to:

• Fines
• Confiscation of plants
• Possible criminal charges depending on the nature and severity of the violation.

Home cultivation can be a fun and rewarding hobby if done responsibly and legally. Make sure you’re up to date with any local ordinances in your town or city, as some municipalities may impose additional restrictions or requirements for home cultivation.

If you’re ever unsure about the rules, consider consulting a legal professional or checking with the Rhode Island Office of Cannabis Regulation for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.

At HomeGrow Helpline, we're here to help you understand the ins and outs of home cultivation while staying safe, legal, and compliant. Text or call us today at (937) 476-1669.