Maryland Cannabis Home Grow Laws: What You Need to Know

Maryland legalized recreational cannabis on July 1, 2023. The new laws allow adults to possess, use, and grow small amounts of cannabis for personal use. Suppose you are considering starting a home grow in Maryland. In that case, it is essential to understand exactly what is legal and what is not. This guide explains the rules in plain language so you can stay compliant while you enjoy growing your own plants.

What Are Maryland’s Current Cannabis Laws?

Recreational cannabis is legal in Maryland for adults who are at least 21 years old. The law permits possession, private use, and limited home cultivation. Adults can possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower or 12 grams of concentrate for personal use. Maryland residents can also gift small amounts of cannabis to another adult, as long as there is no exchange of money or goods. Selling cannabis without a license remains illegal.

Maryland’s updated laws aim to handle cannabis in a way similar to alcohol, giving adults the freedom to make responsible choices while keeping safety a priority. The state also formed the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) to manage licensing, regulate sales, and promote safe and informed consumption.

Who Can Legally Grow Cannabis in Maryland?

Only adults who are 21 years or older can grow cannabis legally in Maryland. Anyone under that age cannot possess or cultivate cannabis in any form. The state does not require a medical card or registration for adults who grow at home under the recreational law. Medical cannabis patients still have the option to participate in the state’s medical program. Still, recreational home grows are available to all qualifying adults.

If you plan to grow cannabis, you must do so in your primary residence. The law does not allow growing cannabis at someone else’s home, in a rented storage unit, or on shared community property.

How Many Cannabis Plants Can You Grow at Home in Maryland?

Maryland’s home grow limit is one of the most essential parts of the law. Each adult 21 or older may grow up to two cannabis plants. However, the total number of plants in a household cannot exceed two, even if multiple adults live together. For example, if you and your partner are both 21 or older, you can still grow only two plants total, not four.

Both flowering and non-flowering plants count toward the limit, so plan your grow cycle carefully. Many growers choose to keep one plant in the vegetative stage while another flowers, allowing for continuous harvesting without breaking the law.

Where Can You Legally Grow Cannabis in Maryland?

Maryland law allows cannabis plants to be grown only on private property and out of public view. This means your plants cannot be visible from a public road, sidewalk, or neighboring property. A fenced yard, an enclosed greenhouse, or an indoor grow tent is acceptable as long as it blocks visibility.

Growers are also required to take reasonable precautions to keep their plants secure. This includes preventing access by minors, visitors, or anyone who should not have contact with the plants. Many people use locked rooms or zip-tied grow tents to meet this requirement. Even if you trust your roommates or family members, the law emphasizes personal responsibility for keeping your plants safe and out of reach.

What Can You Do With Cannabis Grown at Home in Maryland?

Cannabis grown at home is strictly for personal use. You cannot sell or trade it, even to other adults who are legally allowed to possess cannabis. You may, however, gift small amounts of your homegrown cannabis to another adult 21 or older, as long as there is no payment involved.

You can use your harvested cannabis in the privacy of your own home or on private property where you have permission. Using cannabis in public remains illegal, whether it comes from a dispensary or your own plants. Smoking or vaping cannabis in vehicles, parks, sidewalks, or near schools can result in citations.

Homegrown cannabis can also be used to make edibles, tinctures, or other infused products. However, these products should remain within your possession limit, and you must take care to store them safely out of reach of children or pets.

How Much Cannabis Can You Possess or Store in Maryland?

Adults in Maryland can legally have up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrate, or 750 milligrams of THC in infused products. These limits cover all cannabis you possess, whether purchased or grown at home. While the law does not set a specific cap on how much homegrown cannabis you may store after harvest, it is meant to discourage keeping excessive amounts. Holding more than what’s considered reasonable for personal use could raise concerns or create legal trouble, even if the plants were grown legally.

Can Renters Grow Cannabis in Maryland?

Renters can legally grow cannabis if their lease agreement permits it. However, landlords and property managers have the right to restrict or prohibit cannabis cultivation on their property. If you live in an apartment or rental home, review your lease carefully and ask your landlord before setting up a grow space.

Many landlords prohibit smoking or growing cannabis due to odor concerns, energy use, or federal regulations. Even though cannabis is legal at the state level, it remains illegal federally, which means landlords with federally backed loans may have additional restrictions.

If you rent your home and plan to grow cannabis, you need to control odor. Use carbon filters, air purifiers, or enclosed grow tents. It’s also smart to keep an open line of communication with your landlord to prevent misunderstandings or issues with your lease.

Growing Responsibly in Maryland

Home growing can be rewarding when done responsibly. Maryland’s rules are designed to make cultivation safe and protect the youth. Here are a few tips for success:

• Start small: Two plants can still produce a substantial harvest. Focus on learning proper lighting, ventilation, and nutrients before expanding.
• Use secure setups: Lock doors, windows, and tents where plants are kept. Protect minors and pets from accidental exposure.
• Stay informed: Regulations can change, so visit the Maryland Cannabis Administration website for updates.
• Keep it discreet: Avoid posting grow photos publicly or sharing details with strangers. Privacy helps prevent unwanted attention.

The Bottom Line

Maryland allows adults 21 and older to grow up to two cannabis plants per household for personal use. Your plants must be out of public view, grown securely, and used only for private consumption. Selling or trading homegrown cannabis is still illegal, and renters must follow any restrictions set by their landlord.

Understanding and following these guidelines lets you enjoy home cultivation without worry. Maryland’s approach encourages responsible cultivation, allowing residents to legally and safely explore it.