As of 2025, marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in the state of Georgia. However, limited forms of medical marijuana, specifically low-THC oil, are legal for qualified patients under tightly regulated programs.
Despite growing public support for broader legalization across the U.S., Georgia has not yet moved to legalize recreational cannabis. Here’s a breakdown of current marijuana laws in the state, what’s allowed, what isn’t, and how recent legislative changes are impacting access and penalties.
Recreational Marijuana: Still Illegal in Georgia
In Georgia, recreational marijuana use remains illegal statewide. Possession of one ounce or less is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- A fine up to $1,000
Possession of more than one ounce is a felony, carrying 1 to 10 years in prison, depending on the quantity and intent.
However, in recent years, several local governments have passed ordinances to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana. Cities like Atlanta, Savannah, Macon, and Athens now impose civil fines instead of criminal charges for minor possession—typically around $75 without jail time.
Wikipedia – Cannabis in Georgia
Medical Marijuana in Georgia: What’s Legal
Georgia’s medical marijuana program allows for the legal possession and use of low-THC cannabis oil (with no more than 5% THC and at least an equal amount of CBD). This was established by the Haleigh’s Hope Act in 2015 and expanded through the Georgia’s Hope Act in 2019.
Patients must be diagnosed with a qualifying condition, such as:
- Cancer
- ALS
- Seizure disorders
- Crohn’s disease
- PTSD
- Parkinson’s disease
- Sickle cell disease
As of late 2024, more than 25,000 patients were registered in Georgia’s Low THC Oil Registry. These patients are legally permitted to purchase and possess medical cannabis oil through state-licensed dispensaries and select pharmacies.
To apply, patients must:
- Be diagnosed with a qualifying condition
- Have a physician submit documentation to the state
- Receive a Low THC Oil Registry Card from the Georgia Department of Public Health
More information and registration details are available at the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission.
Hemp and THC Derivatives Like Delta-8 and Delta-9
Georgia allows certain hemp-derived products such as delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC from hemp, but these products are now subject to tighter regulation.
In 2024 and 2025, Georgia lawmakers moved to:
- Ban THC-infused beverages
- Restrict sales of delta products to adults 21 and over
- Impose potency limits on THC in consumable hemp products
These changes were prompted by growing concerns over unregulated products being sold to minors and inconsistent THC content.
What Happens If You’re Caught With Weed in Georgia?
Even though some cities have eased penalties, the state’s law is clear: recreational cannabis is illegal. Arrests still happen, especially outside urban areas.
Offenders can face:
- Misdemeanor charges for under an ounce
- Felony charges for over an ounce
- Driver’s license suspension
- Loss of student aid or government benefits in some cases
For legal guidance, it’s advised to contact a criminal defense attorney or refer to resources from the State Bar of Georgia.
The Bottom Line: Where Georgia Stands on Marijuana in 2025
| Use Type | Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Weed | ❌ Illegal | Misdemeanor or felony depending on amount |
| Medical Low-THC Oil | ✅ Legal | Must register with state and have qualifying condition |
| Hemp-Derived THC | ⚠️ Regulated | Age limits, THC caps, and product restrictions apply |
While momentum continues to build for broader cannabis reform nationally, Georgia remains one of the more conservative states when it comes to marijuana laws. Medical access is improving, but full legalization appears unlikely in the near term.
For updates on cannabis legislation, visit the official site of the Georgia General Assembly or track policy changes through the Marijuana Policy Project.
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