It may still seem unbelievable to you—as to so many others—that it is okay to grow, smoke, or ingest marijuana in California, without legal repercussions if you are operating with the legal guidelines. There are still many gray areas within the legalities of the legalization of marijuana, however, and questions from residents of the state abound—along with others where laws have changed drastically such as Colorado, Washington, Alaska, Nevada, and more. Law enforcement may not always be exactly clear on the rules regarding marijuana either, to include issues with driving under the influence, possession in the car, testing for drug use, and other charges.
As a resident of California, you can carry up to an ounce of marijuana for recreational use. Other states have very similar laws in terms of the amount you can carry on your person, along with the ability to buy as much as eight grams of edibles. As for growing, now any resident can become a ‘grower’ too, with six plants allowed in the home. The new law centered around use of recreational marijuana use allows for adults 21 and older to grow plants inside, and in some cases growing may be allowed outside. Local regulations are often strict about marijuana plants being grown outside, however, and in many cases are completely prohibited.
In some municipalities in California, growing your six marijuana plants inside the home may even require a permit. This is exasperating to many residents who are on a limited financial budget and need to grow their marijuana plants as economically as possible for medicinal use. The equipment to start a mini-grow in your home can be costly—while sunshine providing nutrients to plants outside is completely free and much less complicated. The economics, and the desire to have a growing system that is as all-natural as possible are understandable; however, there are obvious issues with having even the smallest growing operations outside as they are still quite valuable and may draw a criminal element (or an underage one) intent on theft—and especially as everyone involved debates on what a ‘secure’ outdoor environment entails.
If you have been arrested due to a matter regarding marijuana or other drugs, please call the Dolan Law Offices now. We will listen carefully to your concerns, review your case, and offer advice based on many years of experience. John Patrick Dolan understands California’s complex criminal defense laws and our office will provide the experience you need to help you fight for your rights and best interests. Call us at (760) 775-3739 or contact us online as soon as possible.