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Is Marijuana Legal in Louisiana 2025
Updated 14/08/2025
Is Marijuana Legal in Louisiana 2025?
As of 2025, marijuana is not fully legal in Louisiana. While some states have legalized marijuana for recreational use, Louisiana has only decriminalized certain amounts of marijuana possession. However, the state does have a medical marijuana program in place for qualified patients.
Louisiana Marijuana Possession Laws
In Louisiana, marijuana possession remains illegal, but the state has decriminalized small amounts. Possession of 14 grams or less is a misdemeanor punishable by a $100 fine for the first offense. Larger amounts or repeat offenses can lead to higher fines, possible jail time, and additional penalties under Louisiana marijuana laws.
Louisiana Marijuana Cultivation Laws
Cultivating marijuana for personal or recreational use is illegal in Louisiana. The state has not legalized the cultivation of marijuana plants, and doing so can result in criminal charges. However, Louisiana does allow for the cultivation of marijuana by licensed medical marijuana producers for the purpose of providing medical cannabis to qualified patients.
Louisiana Marijuana Penalties
While Louisiana has decriminalized small amounts of marijuana possession, there are still penalties for possessing larger amounts or distributing marijuana. Possession of more than 14 grams of marijuana is considered a felony offense and can result in imprisonment and significant fines. Distribution of marijuana is also a felony offense and can carry even harsher penalties.
Who can recommend medical marijuana in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, any state-licensed physician in good standing may recommend medical marijuana to qualified patients. Since August 1, 2020, there is no longer a requirement for special approval or training through the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Patients must still have a qualifying medical condition and receive a recommendation from their physician to participate in the Louisiana medical marijuana program.
Common Questions about Louisiana Marijuana Laws
Can you smoke marijuana in public in the state of Louisiana? 
No, smoking marijuana in public is still illegal in Louisiana.
Can anyone go to a dispensary in Louisiana?
No, only qualified patients with a recommendation from an approved physician can purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries in Louisiana.
Is marijuana a felony in Louisiana?
Possession of more than 14 grams of marijuana is considered a felony offense in Louisiana.
What happens if you get caught with marijuana in Louisiana?
The penalties for marijuana possession in Louisiana can include fines, jail time, and potential felony charges depending on the amount of marijuana involved.
How much is a possession of marijuana ticket in Louisiana?
For possession of 14 grams or less, the fine can be up to $300 for the first offense.
Are edibles legal in Louisiana?
Yes, edibles are legal for qualified patients in Louisiana's medical marijuana program.
Is CBD legal in Louisiana?
Yes, CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal in Louisiana.
Useful links
- state-licensed therapeutic marijuana pharmacies
- HB 135
- HB 137
- Uniform Controlled Substances Law
- HB 190
- HB 629
- HB 234
- HB 697
- Louisiana Department of Revenue
- HB 698
- HB 351
- HB 467
- HB 460
- SB 66
- HB 17
- HB 620
- HB 24
- HB 612
- HB 286
- signed into law
- Act 725
- Act 874
- Act 261
- Act 96
- Act 567
- Act 496
- Act 708
- Act 715
- Act 207
- Act 284
- Act 286
- Act 424
- Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
- state-licensed therapeutic marijuana pharmacies
- Pure Food and Drug Act
- Marijuana Tax Act
- Controlled Substances Act
- SB 66
- HB 460