Where to Buy Legal Weed in San Francisco?

Golden State Bridge, San Francisco
Photo by Ragnar Vorel

Known for its cultural scene and creative spirit, San Francisco is one of the most democratic places nationwide. Is it legal to smoke weed there, and where to buy some? This article answers the most frequently asked questions and outlines the key recommendations for ensuring a hassle-free smoking experience in Golden Gate City.

Can I Buy Weed in San Francisco?

Since 2016,  both using and buying marijuana for recreational purposes have been permitted under the laws of the state of California. However, you need to be at least 21 years old to buy weed on your own. The exact age requirement applies when purchasing tobacco products or alcoholic beverages. 

Where to Buy Legal weed in San Francisco?

From edibles and concentrates to topicals, you can buy a wide range of products in San Francisco. However, you can buy cannabis in a weed delivery San Francisco California

This moment should not be overlooked since you might get arrested by the police when purchasing from illegal dealers, which brings more trouble than it’s worth. When you order from official providers, not only do you save time, but you also get the assurance that the product you receive will be of high quality and provide you with an enjoyable smoking experience.

Rules for Buying, Selling, and Growing Cannabis in San Francisco

Certain limitations on carrying, buying, selling, and growing marijuana cannot be disregarded. First and foremost, you are only allowed to buy weed from legal dealers. Secondly, there are rules on how much cannabis you can purchase and carry. According to California state law, those who are over 21 years old can buy and carry the following:

  • Up to 1 ounce (28.5 grams) of cannabis
  • Up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis

To legally sell cannabis, you must hold a Retail Cannabis Permit from the city of San Francisco and a license from the state of California. You can cultivate up to six cannabis plants in your home or yard. Keep in mind that it is mandatory to keep the yard locked. The general public must not be able to see it, and the property owner must provide legal permission for cultivation. 

Underaged and unlawful use results in specific penalties you don’t want to deal with.

Can I Grow and Buy Cannabis for Medical Use in San Francisco?

You need either a Medical Marijuana ID card or a recommendation from your physician to purchase cannabis for medical purposes in San Francisco. A pleasant benefit is that you will not be required to pay any sales tax when shopping for your favorite cannabis with a valid medical marijuana identification card. 

Those with an ID card can purchase up to 8 ounces of weed. Yet, there are some specific cases when your physician may advise you to buy even more than 8 ounces. To apply for a Medical Marijuana ID card, you must head to the San Francisco Department of Public Health and undergo the registration procedure. 

Speaking about cultivating your plants at home, you are allowed to grow up to 12 cannabis plants for your personal use. To sum up, If you hold a valid identification card for medical marijuana, you can buy, transport, and cultivate a greater quantity than those who use weed for recreational purposes.

Where is it Allowed to Use Cannabis in San Francisco?

In most public areas, using or vaping cannabis is prohibited in the same places that it is forbidden to smoke tobacco. To recap, you are not permitted to smoke, consume, vape, or use cannabis in any other way in the following locations of San Francisco city:

  • In those areas that are open to the public, such as parks and sidewalks
  • In most buildings, including businesses, restaurants and bars, entertainment venues, and the common spaces of multi-unit housing.
  • Near schools or other locations where children are present. Keep in mind that you are prohibited from having cannabis at places like daycare facilities and preschools.
  • At the community gatherings such as music festivals, street fairs, and parades.
  • At the airports, railway stations, and military buildings. 

If the home’s owner gives their permission, cannabis use is legal within private residences. Some dispensaries have designated smoking areas where customers can use cannabis.

Can I Smoke Weed and Drive in San Francisco?

Driving while under the influence of cannabis is a crime that can result in arrest, a monetary fine, and the suspension of your driver’s license. Operating a motor vehicle or riding in one while possessing cannabis in an open container is also illegal. Cannabis must be stored in an airtight container or trunk.

Summary

Smoking and buying weed in Golden Gate city is legal. One needs to be 21 years old or more to purchase cannabis. It is only allowed to shop from legal dispensaries and resellers. There are certain limitations on how much weed you can carry and buy. Also, the majority of public places are marijuana-free. Those holding medical IDs can grow, carry, and consume more weed than those who use it for recreational purposes. 

Resources:

https://sf.gov/information/know-your-rights-cannabis-consumer

https://www.sftravel.com/what-you-need-know-about-legal-marijuana-california

https://substanceabusepolicy.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13011-021-00352-3