Weed in Anaheim: What You Need to Know
Anaheim, California, is known for Disneyland, theme parks, and tourism, but when it comes to cannabis, the city has a strict stance against dispensaries. Even though California fully legalized recreational marijuana in 2016 under Proposition 64, Anaheim has chosen to ban commercial cannabis businesses within city limits. However, that doesn’t mean residents and visitors can’t access legal weed—it just requires a little extra effort.
Is Weed Legal in Anaheim?
Recreational Marijuana – Legal in California, But Not Sold in Anaheim
Since Proposition 64 passed, adults 21 and older in California can:
- Possess up to 1 ounce (28.5 grams) of cannabis or 8 grams of concentrates.
- Grow up to six plants per household for personal use.
- Buy cannabis from licensed dispensaries—just not in Anaheim.
Even though weed is legal statewide, Anaheim has banned dispensaries and commercial cannabis businesses, meaning you cannot legally buy marijuana within the city.
Medical Marijuana – Also Restricted
Medical marijuana has been legal in California since 1996, but Anaheim’s local laws do not allow medical dispensaries either. However, registered medical patients can:
- Possess higher amounts of cannabis than recreational users.
- Be exempt from certain sales taxes when purchasing from licensed dispensaries outside Anaheim.
Where to Buy Weed Near Anaheim
Because Anaheim bans dispensaries, residents and visitors must go to nearby cities to buy legal weed. Some of the closest dispensaries are located in:
- Santa Ana – Less than 15 minutes away, home to multiple licensed dispensaries.
- Long Beach – About a 30-minute drive, with a wide selection of cannabis shops.
- Los Angeles – A major hub for cannabis, with many options for both medical and recreational users.
Some popular dispensaries near Anaheim include:
- Planet 13 (Santa Ana) – One of the largest dispensaries in California.
- Jaderoom (Santa Ana) – A high-end dispensary with a wide selection.
- Catalyst Cannabis (Long Beach) – Known for great prices and deals.
Can You Smoke Weed in Public in Anaheim?
No. Public consumption of cannabis is illegal throughout California, including in Anaheim. This means you cannot smoke, vape, or eat edibles:
- In public parks or sidewalks.
- Inside hotels or near tourist attractions like Disneyland.
- In your car (even if it’s parked).
The best place to consume cannabis is in a private home, as long as the property owner allows it. If you’re staying in a hotel, check their policies—most do not allow cannabis use.
What About Cannabis Delivery in Anaheim?
Even though dispensaries are not allowed, California state law permits licensed cannabis delivery services to operate anywhere in the state. This means Anaheim residents can legally order weed for home delivery from nearby dispensaries.
Some well-known delivery services include:
- Eaze – A statewide cannabis delivery platform.
- Emjay – A fast and reliable service.
- HyperWolf – Specializing in Southern California cannabis delivery.
The Future of Cannabis in Anaheim
There has been some debate about whether Anaheim should lift its cannabis ban, especially considering:
- The potential tax revenue that dispensaries could bring to the city.
- The success of cannabis businesses in neighboring Santa Ana.
- The growing acceptance of marijuana use across California.
However, for now, Anaheim continues to prohibit dispensaries, meaning residents must travel or use delivery services to legally obtain cannabis.
Final Thoughts
Weed is legal in California, but Anaheim remains a cannabis-restricted city, banning both medical and recreational dispensaries. While you can legally possess and consume cannabis, you’ll need to travel to nearby cities like Santa Ana or Long Beach to purchase it. Delivery services provide a legal workaround, making it easier for residents to access cannabis without leaving home.
If Anaheim ever changes its stance on cannabis, it could become a major player in California’s thriving weed industry—but for now, the city remains strictly anti-dispensary.