On August 6, 2024, Ohio began recreational marijuana sales, allowing adults to purchase marijuana for personal use at licensed dispensaries. However, not every dispensary in Ohio is permitted to sell recreational marijuana; only those with dual-use licenses are authorized.
Additionally, a significant number of cities across the state have opted out of recreational sales, enacting bans or temporary moratoriums that restrict where Ohioans can legally purchase marijuana.
If you’re a resident or visitor interested in Ohio’s marijuana landscape, understanding these local restrictions is essential. Plus, with recreational marijuana carrying additional taxes and lower purchase limits, it may still be advantageous to obtain a medical marijuana card.
Limited by Local Moratoriums
Since recreational marijuana was legalized in Ohio, over 100 localities have implemented restrictions on its sale within their borders. According to the Ohio State University Drug Enforcement and Policy Center, many cities and townships have enacted these bans to address public health and safety concerns. In some cases, local officials are adopting a cautious “wait-and-see” approach as the state adjusts to the new regulations. Some of these moratoriums are temporary, while others are indefinite.
Cities in Central Ohio, such as Delaware, New Albany, Powell, and Westerville, have taken the step to ban or temporarily suspend recreational marijuana sales. While Ohioans can legally possess and grow up to six marijuana plants at home, these local restrictions mean that access to retail marijuana varies greatly depending on where you live.
Examples of Cities with Bans or Moratoriums on Recreational Marijuana Sales:
Delaware – Moratorium on recreational sales
New Albany – Recreational sales temporarily suspended
Powell – Recreational sales are restricted
Westerville – Indefinite ban on recreational sales
Marysville – Temporary moratorium expiring on December 31
Obetz – Moratorium extended to February 28, 2025
Grove City – Limits dispensary locations, banning any within 500 feet of residential areas
Each of these cities has chosen to restrict recreational sales, with many citing concerns about increased public consumption, traffic near dispensaries, and community safety. These moratoriums affect local residents’ ability to purchase recreational marijuana nearby, which is why understanding Ohio’s evolving marijuana landscape is crucial.
Why You Might Want to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio
Even if you live in a city where recreational sales are allowed, there are distinct advantages to holding a medical marijuana card. Here are some key reasons why obtaining a medical card in Ohio is beneficial:
1. No Additional Recreational Marijuana Tax
In Ohio, recreational marijuana sales are subject to a 10% excise tax, which is added to the standard state sales tax. Medical marijuana, however, is exempt from this additional tax, making it a more cost-effective option for patients. Over time, the savings from avoiding the recreational tax can add up, particularly for individuals who rely on marijuana for medical purposes.
2. Higher Purchase and Possession Limits
Ohio has established different limits for medical and recreational marijuana purchases. For medical patients, these limits are higher, allowing for the purchase of larger quantities to meet their therapeutic needs. Recreational users face lower purchase limits, which may not be sufficient for individuals managing chronic conditions or those who use marijuana regularly. For those who require consistent access, a medical card provides greater flexibility.
3. Access to a Broader Range of Dispensaries
While recreational sales are confined to dispensaries with dual-use licenses, medical marijuana can be purchased at any of the dispensaries in Ohio’s medical marijuana network. This means that medical patients have access to more dispensary locations across the state, regardless of local bans on recreational sales. For Ohio residents in cities with recreational sales bans, having a medical card ensures continued access to marijuana without the need to travel long distances.
4. More Product Options and Potency Levels
Medical marijuana dispensaries in Ohio often carry a wider range of products, including those with higher THC content, tailored to the needs of patients. This variety is beneficial for patients seeking specific forms of relief that may not be available in recreational-only dispensaries. With a medical card, you can access products like high-potency oils, tinctures, and edibles designed to meet therapeutic needs.
Understanding the Differences Between Medical and Recreational Marijuana in Ohio
Since the rollout of recreational marijuana sales, many Ohio residents have become curious about how the two programs differ. Here’s a breakdown of the key distinctions between medical and recreational marijuana in Ohio:
Category Medical Marijuana Recreational Marijuana
Taxation No additional tax beyond state sales tax 10% excise tax + state sales tax
Purchase Limits Higher limits for qualified patients Lower limits for general public
Access Statewide at all licensed dispensaries Only at dual-use licensed dispensaries
Product Range Broader range, higher potency options Limited product variety and potency
These differences highlight why many Ohioans are choosing to apply for a medical marijuana card, even as recreational sales begin. The medical program offers a more affordable, flexible, and comprehensive option, especially for those with health conditions that benefit from marijuana use.
Challenges of Accessing Recreational Marijuana in Ohio
Ohio’s recreational marijuana market is still new and navigating various hurdles. Only dispensaries with dual-use licenses can currently serve recreational customers, which limits access for those who don’t live near one of these dispensaries. Furthermore, many communities have restricted the establishment of new dispensaries within their boundaries, citing public safety and regulatory concerns.
For residents in cities with restrictions on recreational sales, the options are more limited. While home cultivation is permitted, the need for a medical card is a practical choice for those who want consistent access without the additional tax burden or reduced purchase limits. As the state works to approve additional licenses and address local resistance, medical marijuana remains the most reliable and accessible option for many Ohioans.
Final Thoughts
Ohio’s recreational marijuana market is still in its infancy, and many local governments are taking a cautious approach with temporary or indefinite moratoriums on sales. For residents in cities with these bans, or those who want to avoid the additional taxes and restrictions on recreational marijuana, obtaining a medical marijuana card is a practical and beneficial option. It provides Ohioans with reliable access to a wider array of products at a lower cost, all while supporting therapeutic needs.
As Ohio continues to expand its marijuana industry and more cities reconsider their stance on recreational sales, the advantages of holding a medical marijuana card remain clear. For those serious about consistent, affordable access, it’s a valuable investment in navigating Ohio’s complex marijuana landscape.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Ohio continues to expand its medical marijuana program and make residents’ lives easier by passing new progressive legislation. The addition of new qualifying conditions means that many more people will now be eligible for their medical card.
If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you qualify!
You need your medical card to access any of Ohio’s medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to get your card with Ohio Marijuana Card!
In Ohio, there are many conditions that may make you eligible for medical marijuana, and we hope the program continues to expand by adding more conditions soon! If you have questions about whether you qualify, we can help with that too!
In order to visit a dispensary in the State of Ohio, you will need your medical marijuana card. With telemedicine, you can even get your card from the comfort of your own home!
If you don’t already have your card, we can help! You can even have your appointment and recommendation on the same day!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today to see if you qualify.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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