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The complete guide to cannabis in Chicago

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Created on Aug 15, 2024

Last updated on Apr 3, 2025

Chicago Illinois

Article written by

April AcernoContent Writer

Content reviewed by

Dipak HemrajMedical Cannabis Researcher

Table of contents

  1. Key takeaways
  2. Illinois cannabis laws
  3. Tips for buying cannabis in Chicago
  4. Benefits of getting a medical card in Chicago
  5. How to get a medical marijuana card in Chicago
  6. Can an out-of-state visitor purchase cannabis in Chicago?
  7. Other things to know about cannabis in Chicago
  8. Resources

Both recreational and medical cannabis are legal in Chicago, Illinois. However, understanding the nuances of state and local laws is essential for residents and visitors alike.

From purchase regulations to possession limits, this guide breaks down key aspects of cannabis legislation in Chicago and across the state.

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Key takeaways

Here are the most important things to know about buying and using cannabis in Chicago.

  • Legal age: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase and use recreational cannabis. As a medical card holder, you must be at least 18.
  • Purchase limits: Chicago’s purchase limits vary based on if you’re a Chicago resident, state-approved medical cardholder, or out-of-state recreational user.
  • Consumption rules: Public consumption is prohibited — but you can legally enjoy cannabis in private spaces.

Illinois cannabis laws

Using recreational or medical cannabis in public is prohibited in the state of Illinois. That includes in streets, parks, and any place where smoking is banned under the Smoke-Free Illinois Act.

In Illinois, employers have the right to prohibit their employees from using cannabis. However, they cannot discriminate against employees or job applicants based solely on their status as a medical cannabis cardholder.

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal. Penalties are similar to those for alcohol-related DUIs, and can result in the suspension of your driver’s license.

More specific guidelines vary based on whether you’re a recreational or medical user.

Recreational cannabis laws

Recreational cannabis was legalized in the state of Illinois on January 1, 2020, under HB 1438, also called the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act.

Adults 21 and over can legally buy and possess up to:

  • 30 grams (g) of cannabis flower
  • 5 g of cannabis concentrate
  • Cannabis-infused products that contain up to 500 milligrams (mg) of THC

Non-residents of Illinois have different possession and purchase limits of:

  • 15 g of cannabis flower
  • 2.5 g of cannabis concentrate
  • 250 mg of THC in infused cannabis products

Penalties for possessing more than the legal limit vary depending on the severity of the charge. For example, possession of over 30 g is a misdemeanor, with up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Subsequent offenses range from 3 to 15 years in prison, with a maximum fine of $25,000.

Recreational users are not legally permitted to grow cannabis.

Recreational users must pay state taxes on cannabis products:

  • Cannabis flower and concentrates with 35% THC or less are taxed at 10% of the purchase price
  • Cannabis flower and concentrates with more than 35% THC are taxed at 25% of the purchase price
  • Cannabis-infused products, like edibles and tinctures, are taxed at 20% of the purchase price

Medical cannabis laws

Medical cannabis has been legal in Illinois since 2013 under the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program Act. State residents who have a qualifying health condition can apply for a medical cannabis card to make purchases from licensed dispensaries.

State-approved medical cardholders have higher possession limits of up to 2.5 ounces per every 14-day period. This limit may be increased with a doctor’s waiver.

Cardholders can legally grow up to 5 cannabis plants at home. They just need to be kept in a secure, enclosed area away from public view.

You must be at least 18 years old to qualify for a medical cannabis card. Or, if you’re a minor, you must have a caregiver over the age of 21 approved to do so on your behalf.

Illinois residents who hold certain jobs are not eligible for a medical cannabis card. That includes:

  • Active duty law enforcement officers
  • Correctional officers
  • Correctional probation officers
  • Firefighters
  • Active school bus permit holders or commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders

Medical cardholders are exempt from most state-imposed taxes on cannabis products. They only pay the state sales tax of 6.25% and local taxes of up to 3.5%.

What are cannabis laws in Chicago?

Local governments can levy a percentage-of-price excise tax on cannabis. Illinois law limits this tax to 3% for municipalities and 3.75% for counties.

Cook County, Illinois — where Chicago is located — has enacted these taxes. So customers in Chicago pay a 6% total local excise tax on purchases.

Many living facilities, such as apartments and condos, have smoke-free policies. So if you rent, check with your landlord to avoid penalties related to cannabis use.

Tips for buying cannabis in Chicago

Both medical and recreational users can benefit from these tips:

  • Buy from licensed dispensaries: To ensure you’re getting safe, tested, regulated cannabis products, only make purchases from licensed dispensaries.
  • Compare prices: Look for special offers on your favorite products at various dispensaries in Chicago. Compare prices to find the best deals.
  • Keep up with the law: Check up regularly on state and local cannabis laws. Things may change as the industry continues to evolve.
  • Seek out expert advice: Talk to your local dispensary’s budtenders for personalized cannabis guidance. If you’re a medical cardholder, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional at Leafwell who can offer advice based on your health status.
  • Bring your documentation: Both medical and recreational users need a state-issued photo ID to enter a dispensary in Chicago. Medical cardholders must bring their ID card to enjoy benefits like higher possession limits and lower tax costs.

Dispensaries in Chicago

jars of cannabis on a tables with hands of people visible and an MMJ card

  • Ascend Cannabis Outlet (216 W Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60654; 2367 N Milwaukee St, Chicago, IL 60647): With two locations in Chicago, Ascend offers a large selection of every cannabis product type you could ask for.
  • Sunnyside Cannabis Dispensary (436 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654; 3524 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657): Sunnyside offers two locations that carry flower, vaporizers, edibles, and beverages. They also feature lots of great deals.
  • Curaleaf (923 W Weed St, Chicago, IL 60642): Curaleaf cultivates, processes, and dispenses a wide array of cannabis products for both recreational and medical users.
  • Cannabist (4758 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630): Cannabist offers daily deals and ample perks for medical cardholders. Their staff is trained to guide beginners toward finding products and regimens that work best for their needs.
  • Zen Leaf (1301 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60608): Zen Leaf’s menu includes a rich selection of flower strains, extracts, edibles, and smoking gear.

Benefits of getting a medical card in Chicago

State residents ages 21 and older don’t need a medical card to buy cannabis. However, there are some advantages to having a medical card, such as:

  • Lower age limit: Cardholders can buy cannabis if they’re 18 or older.
  • Higher purchase and possession amounts: Medical cardholders can legally buy and possess 2.5 oz of cannabis every 14 days. Recreational users can buy and possess 30 g of flower at a time.
  • Higher-potency products: Cardholders have access to higher-potency products at dispensaries.
  • Lower taxes: Medical cardholders save about 34% in taxes compared to recreational users.
  • Cultivation: Medical cardholders can cultivate 5 plants, while recreational users aren’t allowed to grow cannabis.

How to get a medical marijuana card in Chicago

To apply for an Illinois medical cannabis card, you must:

  1. Be at least 18 years old.
  2. Get a cannabis recommendation from a licensed doctor.
  3. Enroll in the Illinois Medical Cannabis Patient Program (MCPP).

Those who are younger can appoint a caregiver to apply for cannabis access on their behalf.

Finding a doctor

You can discuss qualifying for medical cannabis with your current doctor. However, not all doctors provide cannabis recommendations. If yours doesn’t, you can search for a Chicago cannabis doctor in your area.

Another option is a telemedicine service like Leafwell, which can virtually connect you with a state-approved medical cannabis doctor. Telemedicine can be convenient, as you can get an appointment within minutes without leaving the comfort of your home.

Once you’ve received your medical cannabis recommendation, you can register with the Illinois Cannabis Tracking System to start the application process. To complete the application, you must provide your state-issued photo ID.

Following approval, you’ll receive a temporary digital card via email within 24 hours. This allows you to start shopping for medical cannabis at a dispensary right away.

The state of Illinois no longer provides physical medical cannabis cards. Once you’re approved, you’ll need to print your card or save the PDF to your phone. You’ll have to present either a digital or physical copy of this card to gain access to cardholder benefits at dispensaries.

Qualifying conditions

To qualify for medical cannabis in Illinois, you must be diagnosed with at least one qualifying health condition, which include:

Illinois also allows medical cannabis access to people who have or could receive a prescription for opioids from their doctor, through the Opioid Alternative Pilot Program (OAPP).

Can an out-of-state visitor purchase cannabis in Chicago?

Illinois does not have a reciprocity system. This means out-of-state medical cards are not honored in Chicago dispensaries.

However, anyone 21 or over can purchase recreational cannabis in Chicago.

Other things to know about cannabis in Chicago

Chicago prohibits weed delivery services. This means the only way to purchase cannabis is to visit a dispensary in person.

To connect with Chicago-based cannabis businesses and advocacy groups, consider attending an event such as:

Resources

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Frequently asked questions

Get answers to common questions about weed in Chicago.

Is weed legal in Chicago?

Yes. Cannabis is legal for both medical and recreational use in Chicago, as well as the entire state of Illinois. To buy cannabis for recreational use, you must be at least 21 years old. Those who have a state-approved medical cannabis card can make purchases at the age of 18.

Are there dispensaries in Chicago?

Yes. There are a number of dispensaries throughout the city of Chicago. A quick online search will connect you to nearby dispensaries in your neighborhood.

Is weed legal in Illinois for tourists?

Yes, as long as you’re at least 21 years old. That said, purchase and possession limits are lower for out-of-state visitors compared to Illinois residents. Visitors can buy and possess 15 g of cannabis flower, 2.5 g of cannabis concentrate, and 250 mg of THC in cannabis-infused products.

Can you smoke in Chicago?

Because of the Smoke-Free Illinois Act, it’s illegal to smoke or vape cannabis in indoor public spaces, as well as most public outdoor spaces like parks and sidewalks. It’s best to use cannabis in the privacy of your home.

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