Recreational marijuana is now legal in the state of Michigan as of December 6th, 2018, which means sanctioned users now have the freedom to light up in the comfort of their own home without fear of accusations or prosecution. However, there are still a number of stipulations in place for effectually managing the use, possession, storage, and growth of marijuana that users must follow in order to remain on the right side of the law.
Use
Above all else, a person must be at least 21 years of age to legally purchase or use any and all forms of recreational marijuana. Much like with alcohol, underage users found consuming or using marijuana will be subject to penalties and punishments under Michigan law – as will those who sell, give, or otherwise supply marijuana to underage users.
Possession
A person must not have more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana in their immediate possession at any time for any reason. Should a person be caught with more than the legal limit, it is possible for that person to be charged with intent to sell, or other related offenses.
Storage
Although a person cannot freely possess more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana at a time, a person can own and keep up to a total of 10 ounces at home. However, all excess marijuana must be stored in a locked container or be put in a designated secure area with “functioning security devices that restrict access to the contents of the container or area.”
Growth
Under the new Michigan marijuana laws, a person may be able to grow up to 12 marijuana plants on their own property at a time. Although, a person must refrain from growing marijuana if:
- The plants can be seen from a public place without the use of binoculars, aircraft, or other optical aids
- They do not have an appropriately enclosed area secure with locks and/or other functioning security devices to keep others away
What Can’t You Do?
Despite new recreational marijuana laws, users are still advised to avoid:
- Driving under the influence;
- Smoking in public places, including outdoor parks and other non-authorized zones;
- Sell or give marijuana to anyone underage;
- Send marijuana through the mail;
- Sell marijuana to anyone without a license;
- Grow marijuana in a community garden or other unsecure environment.
It is also worth noting that a land or property owner can still forbid tenants from smoking on their premises, and employers can still fire or refuse to hire those who test positive for marijuana on a drug test.
For any other questions regarding the do’s and don’t of using, possessing, growing marijuana; or for information concerning legal defense for a marijuana crime, we urge you to get in touch with our marijuana attorneys at Fraiberg & Pernie today by calling us at 248-986-2682 or complete our free case review form in the sidebar to receive a prompt response from our one of our knowledgeable attorneys.