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Is Marijuana Legal in Alabama 2025
Updated 14/08/2025
Is Marijuana Legal in Alabama 2025?
Recreational marijuana remains illegal in Alabama in 2025. However, medical marijuana is legal under the Alabama Medical Cannabis Act (formerly Senate Bill 46), which was passed in 2021 and codified in Ala. Code § 20-2A. The law permits the use of medical cannabis for patients diagnosed with certain qualifying medical conditions, provided they are under the care of a licensed physician registered with the state’s medical cannabis program. Eligible patients must obtain a state-issued medical cannabis card, which grants access to approved medical cannabis products through licensed dispensaries.
Alabama Marijuana Possession Laws
Under current Alabama law, possession of marijuana is illegal. Possession of any amount of marijuana for personal use is considered a misdemeanor. The penalties for marijuana possession can vary depending on the amount of marijuana involved and whether it is a first offense or a subsequent offense. Possession of marijuana for personal use is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000.
Alabama Marijuana Cultivation Laws
Cultivation of marijuana is illegal in Alabama. Growing marijuana plants, whether for personal use or distribution, is classified as a Class B felony. Penalties include imprisonment for 2 to 20 years and fines of up to $30,000. The severity of the sentence may depend on factors such as the number of plants involved and whether it is a first or subsequent offense.
Alabama Marijuana Penalties
The penalties for marijuana-related offenses in Alabama can be severe. In addition to the penalties mentioned for possession and cultivation, the sale, distribution, or trafficking of marijuana is also illegal. The penalties for these offenses can range from imprisonment for a period of two to 99 years, along with fines ranging from $25,000 to $1 million. It is important to note that these penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the offense.
Who can recommend medical marijuana in Alabama?
In Alabama, only qualified physicians can recommend medical marijuana. These physicians must be licensed by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission and have completed the necessary training and certification. The Compassion Act outlines the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use, which include conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, chronic pain, and PTSD, among others. Patients who meet the criteria can consult with a qualified physician to determine if medical marijuana is a suitable treatment option for their condition.
Common Questions about Alabama Marijuana Laws.
Can you smoke marijuana in public in the state of Alabama? 
No, smoking marijuana in public is illegal in Alabama.
Can anyone go to a dispensary in Alabama?
No, only patients with a valid medical marijuana card can access dispensaries in Alabama.
Is marijuana a felony in Alabama?
Yes, marijuana offenses, including possession and cultivation, are considered felonies in Alabama.
What happens if you get caught with marijuana in Alabama?
If caught with marijuana in Alabama, you may face criminal charges, which can result in fines and imprisonment.
How much is a possession of marijuana ticket in Alabama?
There is no specific "possession of marijuana ticket" in Alabama. Possession of marijuana is a criminal offense and can result in fines and imprisonment.
Are edibles legal in Alabama?
No, the sale and possession of marijuana edibles are illegal in Alabama.
Is CBD legal in Alabama?
Yes, CBD derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC is legal in Alabama. However, CBD derived from marijuana is only legal for medical use by qualified patients.
Useful links
- Senate Bill 46
- Darren Wesley ‘Ato’ Hall Compassion Act
- qualifying medical conditions
- Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission
- 600 application requests
- AMCC awarded final cannabis licenses
- AMCC Regulations for Dispensaries
- Alabama Board of Medical Examiners
- ALBME rules
- Senate Bill 160
- House Bill 66
- 2014 Carly’s Law
- Leni’s Law
- SB 326
- HB 96
- Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act
- DEA’s Schedule 1 drugs
- Section 20-2A-3 (21)
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- Controlled Substance Act
- process of awarding cannabis licenses to successful applicants
- scored all applicants
- approve four medical marijuana dispensaries
- Alabama Code
- Alabama DUI laws
- 1910 Mexican Revolution
- 1937 Marijuana Tax Act
- Senate Bill 174
- House Bill 61
- SB 236