Connecticut Cannabis History

As of April 2025, Connecticut has established comprehensive regulations governing the use, possession, cultivation, and sale of cannabis to ensure public safety, prevent appeal to minors, and provide clear guidelines for consumers and businesses.

General Cannabis Laws in Connecticut

Legalization and Possession:

Adult Use: Individuals aged 21 and over are legally permitted to possess and consume cannabis. As of March 2024, adults can possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis on their person. CT.gov

Home Cultivation:

Medical Marijuana Patients: Since October 1, 2021, registered medical marijuana patients have been allowed to cultivate up to three mature and three immature cannabis plants at home, with a maximum of 12 plants per household. CT.gov+1CT.gov+1
All Adults: Beginning July 1, 2023, all adults aged 21 and over are permitted to grow cannabis at home under the same guidelines as medical patients. CT.gov+1CT.gov+1

Retail Sales:

Licensed Retailers: Adult-use cannabis sales have commenced in Connecticut at licensed retail establishments. Consumers are advised to purchase products only from these licensed retailers to ensure product safety and quality. CT.gov

Medical Marijuana Program:

Continuity of Care: Connecticut's medical marijuana program continues to serve qualifying patients, offering access to cannabis products for medical use. CT.gov

Hemp and CBD Products:

Moderate-THC Hemp Products: Effective January 1, 2025, vendors must obtain a certificate of registration to sell moderate-THC hemp products, defined as products containing between 0.5 and 5 milligrams of THC per container. CT.gov

THC-Infused Beverages:

Sales Restrictions: As of July 1, 2024, only licensed cannabis retail establishments and package stores with a waiver are permitted to sell THC-infused beverages. CT.gov+3CT.gov+3CT.gov+3

Packaging and Labeling Regulations

THC-Infused Beverages:

Labeling Requirements: Beginning October 1, 2024, each THC-infused beverage container sold in Connecticut must prominently display a symbol at least 0.5 inches tall and wide, indicating that the beverage is not legal nor safe for individuals under 21 years of age. CT.gov
Prohibited Packaging: THC-infused beverages must not be packaged or labeled in a manner that resembles non-cannabis products, mimics commercially available food or beverages that do not contain THC, implies the product is cannabis, or appeals to individuals under 21 years of age. CT.gov

General Packaging Standards:

Child-Resistant and Tamper-Evident: All cannabis products must be enclosed in child-resistant and tamper-evident packaging to prevent access by minors and ensure product integrity.
Prohibited Imagery and Text: Packaging must not include any statement, illustration, or image that could mislead consumers or appeal to individuals under 21 years of age, such as the use of cartoons, toys, or other designs commonly marketed to children.

Recent Developments

Legislative Proposals: In March 2025, the Connecticut General Law Committee approved legislation allowing hemp farmers to cultivate cannabis and enabling micro-cultivators to establish sales areas similar to brewpubs. The legislation also proposes revisions to cannabis equity ownership rules and relaxes packaging color restrictions. CT Insider
Market Dynamics: Since the legalization of recreational cannabis, Connecticut's medical cannabis market has experienced a decline. Legislative efforts are underway to revitalize the market and better serve medical cannabis users. CT Insider+1CT Insider+1

Compliance with Connecticut's cannabis laws and regulations is essential for consumers and businesses to ensure safety, maintain transparency, and prevent appeal to underage individuals. Staying informed about current and forthcoming regulations will help navigate the evolving cannabis market effectively.

Editor's Note: Status as of 4/10/2025