Weed in Virginia Beach: A City in Legal Limbo
Virginia Beach, like the rest of Virginia, is in a complicated phase when it comes to cannabis laws. While weed is technically legal for adults in the state, there are still no legal dispensaries for recreational marijuana, and strict regulations make access difficult. For now, residents of Virginia Beach can legally possess and grow cannabis, but purchasing it legally remains a challenge.
Is Weed Legal in Virginia Beach?
Yes, but with restrictions. Here’s what the law currently allows:
- Recreational marijuana is legal – Adults 21 and older can legally possess up to one ounce of cannabis.
- No recreational dispensaries – While cannabis is legal, the state has not yet set up a system for legal sales.
- Medical marijuana is available – Registered patients can buy cannabis from licensed medical dispensaries in Virginia.
- Home growing is allowed – Adults can grow up to four plants per household for personal use.
Even though weed is legal, Virginia Beach residents cannot walk into a store and buy it legally—a frustrating situation for many cannabis users.
Where Can You Get Weed in Virginia Beach?
Since there are no recreational dispensaries yet, people in Virginia Beach have a few options:
- Medical Marijuana Dispensaries – If you have a Virginia medical marijuana card, you can buy cannabis at licensed dispensaries. The closest options include:
- Cannabist Norfolk (about 20 minutes away)
- RISE Dispensary in Abingdon (for those willing to travel)
- Growing at Home – Since Virginians can legally grow up to four plants, some people cultivate their own cannabis instead of relying on outside sources.
- The Black Market – Because legal sales are still restricted, many people purchase weed from unlicensed sellers, though this carries legal risks.
Can You Smoke Weed in Public in Virginia Beach?
No. While weed is legal in Virginia, public consumption is still illegal. If caught smoking in public, you could face a fine or other penalties. It’s best to consume cannabis on private property.
Additionally, driving under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited. Virginia has harsh DUI laws, and being caught driving while high could lead to serious legal consequences.
Why Can’t You Buy Weed in Virginia Beach Yet?
Although Virginia legalized recreational marijuana in 2021, the state has struggled to create a system for legal sales. Some reasons for the delay include:
- Political disagreements – Virginia lawmakers have not finalized regulations for retail sales.
- No licensed recreational dispensaries – Without a system in place, there is nowhere to legally buy weed except for medical dispensaries.
- Possible future dispensaries – There have been discussions about allowing sales by 2025, but nothing is confirmed yet.
The Future of Weed in Virginia Beach
Many cannabis advocates are pushing for a fully regulated market, and there is a good chance that dispensaries will open in the next few years. Until then, residents of Virginia Beach will have to rely on medical marijuana, home growing, or traveling to other states where cannabis is legally sold.
For now, Virginia Beach remains stuck in a legal gray area, with weed technically legal but not yet accessible through licensed retailers.