“Is This Legal?” and 9 Other Things You’ll Hear While Growing Weed in NY

Whether you’re growing in a studio apartment in Queens or a quiet corner of your upstate backyard, one thing is certain: people will have questions - and not always the helpful kind. From nosy neighbors to skeptical family members, New York growers quickly learn that their plants spark curiosity and commentary. Here are 10 real-life things you’ll hear, and how to handle them like a pro.

1. “Is This Legal?”

Ah yes, the classic.
Yes - adults 21+ in New York can legally grow cannabis at home, but only under specific rules. As of now:

• You must be at least 21 years old
• You can grow up to 6 plants per person (3 mature, 3 immature), with a maximum of 12 per household
• Plants must be grown in a private, secure area, not visible to the public
• All growing must be for personal use only
• Medical patients were allowed to begin growing first (since October 2022), but adult-use home cultivation is now permitted under finalized regulations

Pro Tip: Print out or bookmark the NYS Cannabis Law homegrow section - just in case you want to politely back up your case.

2. “It smells like a skunk moved in.”

Translation: you need odor control.

While growing is legal, that doesn’t mean your hallway or backyard should smell like a dispensary. Install a carbon filter in your indoor setup or plant low-odor strains outdoors (like Northern Lights or Blue Mystic). Use ONA gel or an air purifier for shared spaces. Bonus: your guests will think you just deep-cleaned.

3. “That’s a tomato plant, right?”

Whether it’s a neighbor or a building inspector, you might hear this one from someone who suspects but isn’t sure. You’re not legally required to disclose your grow to anyone unless they have legal authority, but stealth grows - especially in city apartments - can reduce drama. Try compact genetics, smart tent placement, and plant companions like basil or lavender for camouflage.

4. “What if the kids find it?”

This is a real concern - and the law agrees. New York requires:

• Restricted access (no one under 21 should be able to enter your grow space)
• Secure environments like locked tents, grow cabinets, or fenced-off areas
• If you’re growing outdoors, your plants can’t be visible from public view

Make sure your setup is secure and discreet. It’s about safety and staying legal.

5. “How much money will you make from it?”

This one’s a trap.

Selling cannabis from a homegrow is illegal.
Even gifting large amounts to friends can raise eyebrows. You’re growing for personal use, which includes enjoying it yourself or sharing small amounts casually. Keep it classy, keep it legal.

6. “Aren’t you worried the landlord will find out?”

If you’re renting, this is a serious consideration. Even though state law allows you to grow, your lease can override that right. Many landlords ban cannabis cultivation, and violating your lease could get you evicted.

Solutions:

• Talk to your landlord (if you trust them)
• Keep things small and stealthy
• Use grow tents with odor and light control
• Never let your grow damage property - leaks, mold, or overloads will get noticed

7. “That's huge - are you sure it’s not going to blow a fuse?”

Growing indoors requires electricity - sometimes a lot. If you’re in an older NYC building or rural home with quirky wiring, you’ll want to:

• Use LED grow lights (more efficient, less heat)
• Check the amp load on each circuit
• Avoid running lights, fans, and heaters on the same strip
• Consider a power meter or consult an electrician

Your goal is to grow weed - not start a fire.

8. “What if someone breaks in to steal it?”

Homegrow theft is real. Even legal plants can make you a target if you’re not careful.
Protect your grow with:

• Locks on doors, tents, and gates
• Security cameras or motion detectors (cheap and easy to install)
• Discretion - don’t show off your buds on social media with your location tagged

Outdoors? Install privacy fencing, motion lights, or even “decoy” plants nearby.

9. “My cousin’s friend’s uncle got arrested for this!”

Laws change, but stories stick.
Yes, many people in New York were arrested for cannabis in the past - and some still face legal consequences if they don’t follow the current law. The difference now is:

• Homegrow is legal if done correctly
• Expungement of past low-level convictions is ongoing
• You must stay within possession and plant count limits

The bottom line? Do your research and don’t assume what was true in 2005 applies today.

10. “Can you grow one for me too?”

Nope.

While it’s tempting to help a friend out, you’re only allowed to grow for yourself or your household. Growing for others - even if you’re not getting paid - crosses a legal line. That said, you can recommend seeds, gear, and tips. Just don’t let someone else’s plant live under your roof unless they live there too.

Grow Loud or Grow Quiet - Just Grow Smart

In New York, cannabis is legal, but not a free-for-all. You’ll face questions, judgment, and curiosity, but staying informed makes you a confident grower. Keep your setup legal, your plants secure, and your responses cool - and you’ll be growing greener than Central Park in spring.

At Homegrow Helpline, we’re dedicated to helping New Yorkers grow great weed - legally, safely, and confidently. No fluff. No judgment. Just real help for real homegrowers in the Empire State and beyond.