Vermont Cannabis Laws 2026: Higher Limits and Other Changes Under Act 176

Vermont became the first state to legalize cannabis possession through its legislature, with Act 86 in 2018. Licensed retail sales started in October 2022. In 2026, Governor Scott signed Act 176, which raised limits and made other changes starting July 1, 2026. Medical cannabis has been legal since 2004. The Cannabis Control Board regulates the market.

Is weed legal in Vermont?

Yes, for adults 21 and older. Bring a valid ID showing you're 21+. Visitors can buy too.

How much can you carry and buy?

Limit	Adults 21+
Possession	Up to 2 ounces of cannabis and 10 grams of hash
Per purchase	Up to 2 ounces

These are the new Act 176 limits, up from 1 ounce and 5 grams.

Where can you use it?

Private property, with the owner's permission. Public use is illegal, including in cars. Under Act 176, a lease can't ban a tenant from possessing cannabis in their home, though landlords can still ban smoking.

Can you grow cannabis at home?

Yes. A household can grow up to 2 mature plants and 4 immature plants, in a secure, enclosed area out of public view.

Medical cannabis in Vermont

Patients with a qualifying condition can register with the medical program and buy from medical dispensaries, tax-free. Patients can grow more plants than adult-use customers.

Taxes on cannabis in Vermont

Adult-use purchases carry a 14% cannabis excise tax plus the 6% sales tax, and some towns add a 1% local tax. Medical purchases are tax-free.

Driving and work

Driving impaired is illegal. Employers can keep drug-free workplace policies.

Is anything changing in 2026?

Yes, Act 176. Besides the higher limits and tenant protections, it creates a pilot program for event permits that allow cannabis sales at a limited number of events (but not where alcohol is served), and lowers some license fees for outdoor growers in 2027.

Federal law in 2026

Federal law still treats recreational cannabis as illegal. In April 2026, the federal government moved marijuana sold under a state medical license (and FDA-approved cannabis medicines) to Schedule III, but adult-use cannabis is still Schedule I. That means it's still banned on federal land and can't legally cross state lines, even between two legal states.

Separately, a federal ban on intoxicating hemp products takes effect in two steps: synthetic and converted cannabinoids like delta-8 lose their legal status on November 12, 2026, and naturally derived hemp THC (THCA flower, hemp delta-9 edibles and drinks) on December 11, 2026.

Where to buy legally

Browse dispensaries in Vermont in our directory, including Burlington, White River Junction and Winooski.

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Last reviewed October 8, 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change, so check the official sources below before you rely on any detail.