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

If you're thinking about growing cannabis at home in Virginia, it's important to know the ins and outs of the law. Here’s a clear, simple guide to help you stay compliant and enjoy your homegrown cannabis safely!

Legal Status of Home Cultivation

Virginia legalized adult-use cannabis in 2021, but home cultivation comes with strict rules:

• Allowed: Adults 21 and older can grow cannabis for personal use.
• Not Allowed: Selling homegrown cannabis or sharing with those under 21.

Plant Limits

Under the current law:

• 4 plants maximum per household, not per person.
• Applies no matter how many adults live in the house.

This means if you and your roommate both want to grow, you'll still be capped at 4 plants total.

Location and Security

Virginia requires:

• Private Property: Plants must be grown at your primary residence, not at a rental property without landlord permission.
• Concealed from Public View: Plants cannot be visible from a public street or sidewalk. Fences, greenhouses, or indoor grow setups help meet this requirement.
• Restricted Access: Keep plants secure and away from minors. Locked grow tents or rooms are recommended.

Labeling Requirements

Every cannabis plant you grow must have a tag or label attached with:

1. Your name
2. A note that it's for personal use, not for sale
3. Your driver's license or state ID number

This label can be as simple as a waterproof tag or a small card secured to the plant.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvested cannabis must stay within your household.
• You can store your homegrown cannabis, but be mindful of possession limits:
• Up to 1 ounce in public.
• No stated limit for home storage, but keep it secure and out of sight.

What's Not Allowed

Here's what can get you in trouble:

❌ Selling or giving away homegrown cannabis (sharing small amounts with adults 21+ is allowed, but selling is not).

❌ Exceeding the plant limit.

❌ Growing where it’s visible to the public or accessible to minors.

❌ Using dangerous methods

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violating these rules can lead to:

• Fines (starting at $25 for minor offenses).
• Misdemeanor or felony charges for serious violations.
• Confiscation of plants and other property related to the illegal grow.

Growing cannabis at home in Virginia is a unique opportunity. By understanding the rules and following these guidelines, you can cultivate your own high-quality cannabis safely, responsibly, and legally.

Need help with your homegrown cannabis? Reach out to HomeGrow Helpline! Let’s turn your green dream into a reality. Happy growing!