Can You Grow Weed in Illinois? Here's What You Need to Know

In Illinois, cannabis is legal for both medical and recreational use. However, there are still some restrictions, whether on home cannabis growing or on cannabis consumption. The pivotal questions—can you grow weed in Illinois, and if so, how many plants are allowed?—need careful consideration to steer clear of any unintended consequences.

So, before you embark on your journey, let's delve into the intricacies of Illinois law! (If you wonder if it's legal to grow marijuanas in other states, make sure to refer to our previous guide)

Is Weed Legal in Illinois?

The good news is YES, but with regulations.

You are allowed to purchase marijuana for medical and recreational purposes from licensed dispensaries by presenting a valid ID with a photo.

For legal possession, individuals aged 21 and older are allowed to have up to 30 grams of cannabis flower. Visitors to Illinois are permitted half of this amount.

For Medical Use

Certain medical products are available only to patients with a medical marijuana ID. Patients under 18 can only purchase medical marijuana through their designated caregivers.

To receive a medical marijuana card, you need to meet one of the conditions listed by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Registered patients or caregivers can buy up to two and half ounces of weed within a 14-day period.

For Recreational Use

Recreational weed is legal in Illinois, but certain groups are prohibited from using it, including:

Individuals under 21;
Pregnant or breastfeeding women;
Those with respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma;
Those with a history of active mental health conditions such as severe anxiety and depression.

Can You Grow Weed in Illinois?

cannabis flowers in Hey abby growing system

home-grown cannabis plants using Hey abby grow box

If You're a Medical Patient

Yes, but how many weed plants can you grow in Illinois?

Illinois permits medical patients to grow 5 plants at a time for personal use, with the stipulation that these plants are securely stored within a locked facility. You can choose all-in-one intelligent marijuana grow kits like Hey abby, taking up less than 2 square feet of space, and effortlessly transform your room into a greenhouse.

Simultaneously, licensed medical marijuana cultivation facilities in the state are subject to a cap, restricted from cultivating cannabis on an area exceeding 5,000 square feet.

If You're Not...

Non-patients are prohibited from growing weed at home in Illiois, and anyone who violates this risks a civil penalty of $200. Beyond this, growing more than 5 plants escalates to a felony, carrying potential jail time and fines. If the number of cultivated weed plants ranges from 5 to 20, individuals may face 1 to 3 years of imprisonment and fines up to $25,000.

Other Regulations You Should Look Out for in Illinois (& Penalties for Violations)

1. Possession Limits: 30 Grams of Cannabis

Illinois marijuana possession laws limit purchases to more than 30 grams of cannabis. Individuals caught carrying between 30 and 100 grams of marijuana face misdemeanor charges for a first offense, with a maximum fine of $2,500 and up to one year of jail time. Subsequent offenses elevate the charges to a felony, carrying a maximum penalty of 3 years in jail and fines up to $25,000.

2. No Public Use

You can’t smoke, vape, or consume cannabis in motor vehicles and public spaces in Illinois. Violating these rules may lead to fines, determined by local ordinances.

In some cities, first-time offenders may face fines of up to $50, while subsequent offenses could result in a $100 fine. Using marijuana in schools or in proximity to children may incur stiffer penalties.

3. Illegal Sales

Individuals can’t sell any amount of marijuana to anyone; such transactions are restricted to state-licensed dispensaries. You can’t buy or use marijuana if you’re a non-US citizen or immigrant, because marijuana remains illegal under federal law.

Unauthorized sales, involving amounts less than 10 grams, can result in a misdemeanor, with penalties including 6 months of jail time and a maximum fine of $1,500.

Moreover, sharing or gifting cannabis to another adult in exchange for payment is also considered illegal.

4. Driving

Drivers found with a THC blood concentration of 5 nanograms or more per milliliter are considered driving under the influence. In cases without bodily injury, the offender's driver's license is suspended for 6 months.

However, if there is physical harm or if it's a repeat offense, Illinois classifies it as a felony. This felony is punishable by a 1-year prison term, a minimum 1-year driver's license suspension, and a fine of up to $2,500.

5. Traveling with Marijuana in Illinois

All marijuana purchased in Illinois must be used and stored within the state. It's illegal to transport cannabis across Illinois borders by any means of transportation. Hence, out-of-state visitors cannot take cannabis bought in Illinois back to their home states.

While traveling with marijuana is legal in Illinois as long as you’re not crossing state lines. Transportation of marijuana crossing state lines is considered drug trafficking — a serious federal felony with penalties of up to 5 years in prison and $250,000 in fines.

Cannabis Dispensaries in Illinois

Currently, most dispensaries in Illinois prefer cash, while a few may say yes to debit cards. Dispensaries' working hours can change, so it's best to verify the operating hours with the specific dispensaries you mentioned. Most of them will open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. in working days.

To find a dispensary near you and check if they cater to medical patients, utilize the map tool offered by the Cannabis Regulation Oversight Office.

In Illinois, here are some of the best dispensaries you can take a look at:

MedMen: Renowned for quality topicals and exceptional customer service.
Nature’s Treatment of Illinois: Unbeatable HAPPY HOUR deals from 1 pm to 3 pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and ALL DAY LONG on Tuesday and Friday!
Curaleaf: Known for competitive pricing and a user-friendly menu.
EarthMed: A dedicated patient care team focused on providing relief from pain.

FAQs

1. Can you buy weed online in Illinois?

If you’re looking for marijuana delivery services in Illinois, you’re going to end up disappointed. Weed deliveries aren’t allowed under the current law, although the authorities say they’re considering it.

2. How will cannabis products be taxed?

Products with less than 35% THC, including cannabis flower, are subject to a 10% sales tax. Products with a THC concentration higher than 35% come with a 25% tax. Illinois municipalities and counties may also impose additional local sales taxes.