Is Weed Legal in New York?
Complete guide to NY & NJ cannabis laws for tri-state residents
Short Answer: Yes, Weed is Legal in New York
New York legalized recreational cannabis in March 2021 through the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA).
Adults 21+ can legally purchase, possess, and consume cannabis in New York State—just like New Jersey residents can at The Library dispensary in West Orange, NJ.
New York Cannabis Laws: The Basics
Who Can Buy Cannabis in NY?
- • Must be 21 years or older
- • Valid government-issued ID required
- • Both NY residents and out-of-state visitors can purchase
- • No medical card needed for recreational dispensaries
Purchase & Possession Limits
- • Flower: Up to 3 ounces (85g) per purchase
- • Concentrates: Up to 24 grams
- • Home possession: Up to 5 pounds (stored securely)
- • Public possession: Up to 3 oz flower / 24g concentrate
Where Can You Consume?
- • ✓ Private residences
- • ✓ Anywhere tobacco smoking is allowed (generally)
- • ✗ Motor vehicles (driver or passenger)
- • ✗ Workplaces (unless employer permits)
- • ✗ Schools and within 1,000 feet of schools
New Jersey Cannabis Laws
New Jersey legalized recreational cannabis in February 2021 through voter referendum.
The Library dispensary operates under NJ's recreational cannabis program, serving adults 21+ with valid ID.
NJ Purchase & Possession Limits
- • Flower: Up to 1 ounce (28g) per transaction
- • Concentrates: 5 grams per transaction (equivalent to 1 oz flower)
- • Edibles: No specific limit, calculated by THC content
- • Multiple purchases: You can return for another purchase same day
NJ Consumption Rules
- • ✓ Private residences only
- • ✗ No public consumption (unlike NY's more relaxed stance)
- • ✗ Never in vehicles
- • ✗ Not on federal property
Key Differences: NY vs NJ
| Law/Rule | New York | New Jersey |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Limit | 3 oz flower / 24g concentrate | 1 oz flower / 5g concentrate |
| Public Consumption | Generally allowed where tobacco is | Private residences only |
| Home Growing | Not yet legal (pending rules) | Not legal for recreational users |
| Sales Tax | 13% + local taxes | 6.625% sales tax (medical exempt) |
| Legal Since | March 2021 | February 2021 |
Can NY Residents Buy in NJ?
Yes! New York residents can purchase cannabis at The Library dispensary in West Orange, NJ.
All you need is valid ID proving you're 21+. Out-of-state visitors are welcome at NJ dispensaries.
Important Notes for NY Residents Shopping in NJ:
- • NJ purchase limits apply (1 oz per transaction)
- • You can legally transport cannabis back to NY
- • Stay within NY's 3 oz possession limit when crossing state lines
- • Never consume while driving—DUI laws apply in both states
- • Don't cross into states where cannabis is illegal (Pennsylvania)
Driving & DUI Laws
Both NY and NJ have strict driving under the influence laws.
New York DUI Laws
Driving while ability impaired by marijuana is illegal. Police can use field sobriety tests and Drug Recognition Experts. Penalties include fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.
New Jersey DUI Laws
Operating a vehicle under the influence of cannabis is a criminal offense. Penalties range from fines ($200-$1,000) to license suspension (3-12 months) and possible jail time for repeat offenses.
⚠️ Never drive after consuming cannabis. Use ride-sharing services, designated drivers, or public transportation.
Employment & Drug Testing
New York
Employers generally cannot discriminate based on legal off-duty cannabis use. However, exceptions exist for safety-sensitive positions and federal contractors. Pre-employment drug testing for cannabis is restricted.
New Jersey
Similar protections exist—employers cannot discriminate solely based on legal cannabis use. Safety-sensitive positions and federal jobs are exceptions. Employers can still maintain drug-free workplace policies.
Consult with HR or legal counsel if you have concerns about drug testing and cannabis use in your workplace.
Where to Buy: The Library Dispensary
Serving NY & NJ Residents
Located in West Orange, NJ (Essex County), The Library is conveniently accessible for both New Jersey and New York residents:
- • Address: 5 Washington Street, West Orange, NJ 07052
- • License: NJ Cannabis Retail License RE000228
- • Products: Flower, edibles, vapes, concentrates, pre-rolls, accessories
- • Staff: Knowledgeable budtenders to guide your purchase
- • Parking: Convenient on-site parking available
Easy Access from NYC
Just 30 minutes from Manhattan via I-280. Serves Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Westchester, and all NYC boroughs.
Visit The Library Today
NY & NJ residents welcome! Experience premium cannabis at West Orange's finest dispensary
Want to know where else cannabis is legal?
View our complete guide to states with cannabis legalization →Legal Information: Cannabis laws are subject to change. This guide is current as of 2025 but may not reflect future legislative updates. Must be 21+ to purchase. The Library holds NJ Cannabis Retail License RE000228. Never drive under the influence.