Washington D.C.Cannabis Growing Guide
Everything you need to grow cannabis at home in Washington D.C.. Laws, climate tips, recommended strains, and local resources.
Age Requirement
21+ years old
Plants Per Person
6 (3 mature)
Household Maximum
12 plants
Legal Since
February 26, 2015
Legal Overview
Washington D.C. legalized home cannabis cultivation through the Initiative 71 (DC Marijuana Legalization) on February 26, 2015.
What's Allowed
- •Growing up to 6 plants per person (3 mature, 3 immature)
- •Up to 12 plants per household with multiple adults
- •Possessing up to 2 oz of cannabis
- •Gifting up to 1 oz to another adult 21+
Not Allowed
- •Selling cannabis (no legal sales exist in DC)
- •Exceeding 3 mature plants per person
- •Growing in public view or public property
- •Consuming cannabis in public
Location Requirements
Where and how you can legally grow cannabis in Washington D.C..
Private Property Only
Plants must be grown on private property. Most of DC is federal land where cannabis is illegal. Know your property status.
Secure & Enclosed
Cannabis must be kept in an enclosed, locked space not accessible to those under 21.
Not Publicly Visible
Plants cannot be visible from public areas.
Making Concentrates
Rules for making cannabis concentrates and extracts in Washington D.C..
Allowed Methods
- •Rosin pressing
- •Ice water hash
- •Dry sift
- •Infusing with food-safe oils
Prohibited Methods
- •Butane (BHO extraction)
- •Propane
- •Other volatile solvents
Important: Volatile solvents (butane, propane, etc.) are prohibited for home extraction in Washington D.C.. Stick to solventless methods like rosin pressing and ice water hash.
Renting? Important Considerations
What renters in Washington D.C. need to know about home cultivation.
- ⚠️Most DC apartments prohibit cannabis cultivation
- ⚠️Many buildings are on federal land or receive federal funds
- ⚠️Review lease carefully - DC landlords are often strict
- ⚠️Federal employees face additional restrictions
Compliance Tips
Best practices for staying compliant with Washington D.C. cannabis laws.
✓Federal Complication
Much of DC is federal property where cannabis remains illegal. National Mall, federal buildings, and even some residential areas are federal land.
✓No Legal Sales
DC has no legal cannabis sales due to Congressional interference. Home growing is the only legal way to obtain cannabis (besides "gifting").
✓Federal Employees
Federal employees and contractors should be aware that cannabis use, even legal under DC law, can affect security clearances and employment.
Climate & Growing Season
USDA Zone
USDA Zone 7a-7b
Outdoor Season
May - October
Last Frost
Mid April
First Frost
Early November
Solid outdoor growing potential with appropriate strain selection.
D.C. has hot, humid summers typical of the Mid-Atlantic. Indoor growing is preferred due to space constraints, privacy concerns, and the humid climate that can promote mold. If growing outdoors, choose mold-resistant strains and ensure plants are on private, non-federal property.
Recommended Strains for Washington D.C.
These strains are particularly well-suited for growing in Washington D.C.'s climate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cannabis plants can I grow in DC?
DC allows adults 21+ to grow up to 6 plants per person, with no more than 3 being mature (flowering). Households with multiple adults can have up to 12 plants.
Why can't I buy cannabis legally in DC?
Congress has blocked DC from using funds to regulate and tax cannabis sales through annual appropriations riders. Growing your own or receiving "gifts" are the only legal options.
Can I grow on federal property in DC?
No. Cannabis remains federally illegal. Much of DC is federal property where you cannot grow or possess cannabis. Verify your property is not federal land.
What is "gifting" in DC?
DC allows adults to "gift" up to 1 oz to other adults. This has led to "gift shops" where you buy an item and receive a cannabis "gift." This gray market exists because legal sales are blocked.
Community
Ready to Start Growing in Washington D.C.?
Check out our complete growing guide and equipment recommendations.