After becoming the first state to decriminalize marijuana in 1973, the State of Oregon was synonymous with the use of the drug overnight. Okay, so it later lagged behind other states on the whole ending prohibition front, but there’s no denying that it’s flown the recreational marijuana flag for quite some time now.
Until 2014, however, those found with small amounts of cannabis would still face a fine. It’s been a long and tricky journey towards full legalization, but for those who buy recreational marijuana in Oregon, enjoying cannabis without ramifications is possible.
As you may have guessed, the amount you can buy, carry on your person and possess at home depend on a lot of factors. There are differences between those who need it for medical purposes, non-medical purchasers from Oregon, and recreational users from outside the state. With our guide, you can use recreational marijuana in Oregon without attracting any negative attention from the law.
A brief insight into Oregon’s relationship with marijuana
Out of all the states in America, Oregon has done the most toward making marijuana legal. After decriminalizing it in the seventies, state legislators permitted medical use in 1998. Those who had certain health conditions could possess up to three mature plants within their home but could not gift or sell the product.
In 2004, moves were made for certain store owners to sell medical marijuana. Although Oregon’s voters rejected the ballot, 2005 saw an increase in the number of plants those eligible under the medical program could own. In addition to having permission to grow up to six plants, they were informed of the need to join a grow site registry and possess a card illustrating proof of said registry. Theoretically, this is when the regulation of marijuana in Oregon made its first significant strides.
Once again, in 2010, Oregon’s voters said no to stores selling cannabis. However, in 2012, a dispensary registration system was created. Between 2012 and 2014, both the State of Washington and the State of Colorado voted yes to legal marijuana.In 2014, Oregon’s voters followed in their footsteps, leading to the legal position that cannabis smokers find themselves in today.
Who can legally smoke cannabis in Oregon?
Providing you are legally an adult, you can smoke cannabis in Oregon. However, there are differences between those who live in the state as a resident and those who are visiting. Additionally, Oregon residents with certain medical conditions can possess more than those who don’t have them. For the sake of clarity, it’s worth understanding the differences between each group.
You must be over the age of 21 to smoke marijuana in Oregon, with a few exceptions
Much like drinking alcohol, you must be over the age of 21 to smoke marijuana in Oregon. The only exception to this is when you’re eligible under Oregon’s medical marijuana program, which is governed by a different set of rules. Under the program, those over the age of 18 can use medical marijuana if they meet certain criteria.
For example, alleviating the symptoms of cancer or HIV/AIDs would be qualifying situations. For people under the age of 18, it’s necessary to get permission from a parent or guardian. The cannabis must come from a prescribing doctor who is licensed to issue such prescriptions. The patient using it will also need to prove their eligibility.
Both visitors to the State of Oregon and residents can use marijuana, but they need to follow certain rules
At present, there are no restrictions on who can use recreational marijuana while in Oregon, whether they are a resident or not. However, you must be over the age of 21 and you cannot transport it across the state border. It’s also worth noting that the State of Oregon has allowed certain counties and cities to prevent the sale of the substance.
How much cannabis can you possess and use in Oregon?
How much cannabis you can use in Oregon varies depending on a few factors. Those who can hold the least are visitors to the state. Residents without medical permits can possess fairly generous amounts. For those who have a medical condition that warrants the use of marijuana to alleviate symptoms, there are fewer restrictions on possession. If you’re a member of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP), you’ll benefit from the highest allowances.
Before we move onto how much you can possess and what form you can hold it in, it’s worth stressing that you must carry the right type of ID if you’re transporting recreational marijuana in public. Whether you’re from the state or not, this means a government-issued ID that states that you’re 21. If you have an OMPP card, carry it with you at all times.
Now, to keep things simple, it’s worth breaking your possession rights down based on the different forms cannabis can take:
- Usable cannabis; When we say usable cannabis, we mean a substance such as the dried flower that is ready to smoke or incorporate into baked goods. If you don’t hold an OMMP card, you can carry one ounce on your person in a public place. If you do hold an OMMP card, that increases to 24 ounces. In either case, carrying your card and proof that you’re over the age of 21 is crucial.
- Cannabis concentrates; This means concentrates that you have purchased from a store, not concentrates that you have made yourself. You can carry one ounce only.
- Solid cannabis edibles; Up to 16 ounces.
- Liquid versions of cannabis; Up to 72 ounces.
- Cannabis seeds; You can carry 10 cannabis seeds in public if you don’t hold an OMMP card. If you have an OMMP card on your person, you can carry 50 cannabis seeds.
- Immature cannabis plants; You may carry up to four immature cannabis plants on your person.
Although all the above applies to those who are in public places, being able to carry cannabis doesn’t mean you can use it in public. That includes not being able to use it in public if you’re using a vape.
Are there any differences in marijuana possession when you’re on a private property in Oregon?
If you’re on a private property in Oregon and the property’s owner gives you permission to possess cannabis while there, you can increase your possession of usable dried flowers to eight ounces (as a person who is over the age of 21). Otherwise, all the rules above continue to apply.
Where can you buy recreational marijuana in Oregon and how much can you purchase?
While buying recreational marijuana in Oregon, expect the store selling it to ask for proof of ID. Stores that have a license to sell recreational marijuana can usually do so between the hours of 7 am and 10 pm, which is governed under Measure 91. But, you should check their licensed sale times ahead of going out to buy some. A few stores may operate under a limited period, so you don’t want to arrive only to face disappointment and leave empty-handed.
Only ever purchase your cannabis from a place that holds a state license. Failing to do so means you are buying street cannabis, which is not governed by the same laws like the 2014 act. After buying your cannabis, remember that it still remains illegal to gift it to someone under the age of 21.
What are the limits on purchasing cannabis in Oregon?
- Dried cannabis flower; One ounce only if you’re over 21
- Solid cannabis edibles; 16 ounces
- Cannabis concentrates; 5 grams
- Liquid cannabis; 72 ounces
- Cannabis seeds; 10 cannabis seeds
- Immature cannabis plants; 4 immature cannabis plants
As of August 24th 2018, the State of Oregon decided that those holding an OMPP could only purchase one ounce of dried cannabis flower per day. This is a temporary ban, which will lift six months after its initiation. After six months, OMPP cardholders can return to purchasing 24 ounces of dried cannabis flower per day. Those who use recreational marijuana in Oregon will still be restricted to one ounce per day.
Before buying recreational marijuana in Oregon, it’s worth making sure you don’t have any on your person. If you do and your purchase takes you over the limit, you are still in breach of possession laws. Therefore, if you currently possess a small amount of cannabis at a private property, make sure you leave it there while you make your second purchase. While that may seem like a lot of math, it’s absolutely worth figuring out if you want to enjoy using it within the confines of the law.
After buying your cannabis, make sure you transport it correctly
Once you have your recreational marijuana, we recommend transporting it in its original container. It’s the easiest way to prove that you purchased it from a licensed dispensary rather than some guy on the street or by smuggling it across state lines.
If you’re in the habit of drying your own flowers after purchasing and nourishing immature plants, transport your cannabis in an air-tight container that’s not see-through. Doing this isn’t about evading detection, as you’re only ever going to carry the legal amount. But, by closing off the smell, you won’t irritate those around you who can’t get behind the legal use of cannabis.
Finally, if you do like to place yours in a pipe, vape, or any other type of device, empty it if you’re going to leave the house with it. Legally, you can only be fined or arrested if you’re openly smoking recreational marijuana in Oregon. However, it’s always a good idea to not give the cops any excuse to clamp down on you if someone nearby is smoking openly.
Where can you smoke recreational marijuana in Oregon?
After legally buying your cannabis, you still need to make sure you stay on the right side of the law by smoking it in the right places. If you’re a visitor to the United States, remember that laws differ between states. As such, what holds true for places such as Washington or Colorado may not apply to Oregon.
You can only smoke cannabis in Oregon while on a private property
Resisting the urge to use your marijuana anywhere other than a private property is essential. If you’re unsure as to whether the property you’re on is private, ask yourself or the owner whether members of the public have any legal right of access? If they do, you need to go elsewhere.
If you’re visiting Oregon from another state or another country, you must have the property owner’s permission before using cannabis. Let’s say you’re renting an Air B’n’B, for example. The fact that it’s a private property doesn’t give you the legal right to use cannabis there unless the owner explicitly says that you can do so. It remains as their property, even though you are hiring it. Therefore, you should ask permission before using recreational marijuana.
Some hotels may allow you to use marijuana
It’s worth noting that hotel and other public accommodation owners can act in a private capacity when it comes to marijuana. As a result, a few provide marijuana-friendly rooms. Occasionally, you’ll discover one that offers a marijuana smoking balcony.
But, you shouldn’t make the assumption that booking a hotel room automatically means you can use the drug in there. Ask the staff before using it.
Where can’t you use recreational marijuana in Oregon?
The simple answer to this is: anywhere that is public. But, for the sake of remaining clear, here are a few examples of what constitutes a public place:
- Bars, clubs, and restaurants
- Parks and sports fields
- Stores, even those that sell marijuana
In short, any place where a member of the public can enter falls under this heading.
Tourists beware: don’t use cannabis at key attractions.
As a state that’s brimming with national parks and places of public interest, Oregon attracts visitors in their droves each year. If you’re traveling to the area, remain mindful of the fact that national parks and other wilderness destinations fall under the public place rule too. And, they’re classed as federal land. Because federal laws don’t overrule state laws, being caught in possession of marijuana while visiting a national park means you’re acting illegally. If you plan to visit any such attractions, check your vehicle and bags to avoid any hassle.
Using recreational marijuana in Oregon, while staying legal
Now that you know how much you can carry, possess, and purchase, it’s time to learn more about the other nuances that’ll help you enjoy recreational marijuana in Oregon, legally. For everyone’s safety, the State of Oregon commits itself to regulating the industry. As such, there are a few more rules you need to follow.
Can I buy recreational marijuana in Oregon for someone else?
Yes, you can buy recreational marijuana in Oregon for someone else. But, you need to abide by the following rules:
- You cannot buy cannabis for anybody under the age of 21
- You can only give marijuana to someone as a gift
- You cannot receive money in exchange for the marijuana you are giving to another person
- You cannot use the marijuana you are giving to that other person as a form of legal tender. I.e. giving it to them because they’re driving you somewhere.
- You cannot take cannabis across state lines and give it to someone else, even if that state permits the use of marijuana
In the name of showing your friend a little kindness, it’s probably only worth giving them cannabis if you’re sure they don’t already have any on their person. This becomes especially important when they’re from out-of-state, as such individuals are subject to strict rules. If you’re going to their house with the aim of giving them marijuana as a gift, make sure you’re not pushing them over their personal limits.
Is it legal to drive in Oregon while using recreational marijuana?
Just like drunk driving, you can’t drive after using recreational marijuana in Oregon. Law enforcement officers have the tools required to detect whether you’ve used marijuana prior to driving, and they’ll use them if something doesn’t seem quite right.
Fortunately, a little planning ahead can avoid any issues on this front. If you do plan to use cannabis in any form, either choose to stay where you are, grab a cab, or find a designated driver. If you’re a regular cannabis user, you probably know your own limits when it comes to marijuana. So, don’t plan any journeys for the next day either if you suspect you’re going to wake up feeling as though you’re still under the influence.
My employer doesn’t allow us to use drugs, do these laws mean that I can?
Like any state law, the ones that allow you to use recreational marijuana in Oregon do not supersede federal law. They also don’t have a say in the contract terms you set with your boss. They’re the terms you agreed to, which means they’re the terms you need to stick with.
If your boss doesn’t allow you to remain in employment while using drugs, it’s worth understanding how long it takes for cannabis to clear your system. If you don’t use it very often, you may find that it disappears after a week when your boss asks you to take a urinalysis test. But, if you’re a regular user, it can build up in your body and may take between two to three months to clear. If your employer decides to use hair testing, it could rest there for a few months too.
I come from a country where the use of recreational marijuana is illegal, should I still try it?
It’s always worth considering what the ramifications are when you return home. Also, bear in mind how long it takes for the drug to leave your system. Let’s say you’re visiting Portland for three weeks and you try some cannabis in the first few days. Scientifically speaking, if you’re a first time user, you probably won’t produce a positive urine test. But, your marijuana use could still show up on a hair test many months down the line.
Although few countries will spot test people to detect the use of cannabis, those that do usually do so because of the person’s employer. If there’s a chance you’ll flag up as being positive after returning home, it’s probably better to step away from marijuana altogether. Much like state law can’t supersede federal law over here, United States law won’t supersede the laws of your country.
Now that I know where I stand legally, what should I try?
If you use marijuana recreationally already and you have done so for a long time, you might already know what you want. But, for those of you who have dabbled, are entirely new to the experience, or you want to experiment, it’s always worth considering other strains.
With most of Oregon’s recreational marijuana being grown in the state itself, it’s easy to assume your options are limited. However, indoor growing techniques do allow for a bit of artistic license. Local farmers will grow and nourish their cannabis according to the experience that the user wants to have. For example, while some strains are excellent for enjoying a good night’s sleep, others may send you on a sensory adventure.
As strains change from year to year, it’s difficult to list them here. But, the Goshango team is happy to answer questions. Or, you can ask those who work in the stores you’re buying cannabis from.
Since 2014, those who have resided in and visited Portland, Oregon, have benefited from the recreational use of marijuana. Whether you live here or you’re with us for a few days, we heartily recommend trying this pastime while abiding the law. Always purchase your goods from a reputable seller.
At Goshango, we class ourselves as one of those sellers. With dispensaries in Portland, Oregon, we sell recreational marijuana that’s of the highest quality. We have a wide range of marijuana flowers, edibles, concentrates, vape cartridges, topicals and more!
You can check out our products here or sign up for our newsletter before making your purchase. Until then, stay safe and enjoy your cannabis use the legal way!
