New York OCM
What cannabis activity is legal and illegal for adults in New York?
Adults 21 and over may buy from licensed retailers within state possession limits. Selling without a licence, buying from unlicensed sellers and using cannabis while driving are not permitted.
Last reviewed
New York's adult-use programme applies to people 21 and over. Purchases are lawful only from retailers licensed by the Office of Cannabis Management, and the state publishes possession limits for cannabis and concentrate that adults must stay within.
Selling or supplying cannabis without a licence is not permitted, regardless of quantity, and neither is providing cannabis to anyone under 21. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal.
Cannabis also remains illegal under federal law, which is why it cannot be shipped across state lines or bought and sold online.
This is orientation, not legal advice, and the rules are amended regularly. Confirm current limits and requirements with OCM or qualified counsel.
- We do not provide guidance for selling cannabis without a licence, for buying from unlicensed sellers, or for working around any state requirement.
Sources
- Adult-Use Cannabis InformationNew York State Office of Cannabis Management — reviewed September 11, 2026
- Cannabis — Frequently Asked QuestionsCenters for Disease Control and Prevention — reviewed September 11, 2026