← North Carolina cannabis laws›Cannabis Possession Limits

North Carolina Cannabis Possession Limits (2026)

Restricted: Possessing cannabis is illegal in North Carolina, and up to 0.5 ounce is a Class 3 misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $200 and no jail.

RestrictedVerified May 31, 2026
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Possessing cannabis is illegal in North Carolina, and up to 0.5 ounce is a Class 3 misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $200 and no jail. Larger amounts carry higher penalties.

Official source: ncleg.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Cannabis Possession Limits in states bordering North Carolina

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

  • GeorgiaConditional

    In Georgia, possession is illegal for anyone who is not registered, and more than 1 ounce is a felony. Registered patients were historically limited to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil (5% THC or less); under SB 220 (2026) they may hold up to 12,000 milligrams of THC in approved products.

    Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: dph.georgia.gov · Full Georgia rule →

  • South CarolinaRestricted

    Possessing cannabis is illegal in South Carolina, and up to 1 ounce (28 grams) is a misdemeanor carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $100–$200 fine for a first offense. More than that can be charged as intent to distribute.

    Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: scstatehouse.gov · Full South Carolina rule →

  • TennesseeRestricted

    Marijuana is illegal to possess in Tennessee in any amount. Simple possession is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Possessing half an ounce (14.175 grams) or more can be charged as a Class E felony when there is evidence of intent to sell or deliver it. See Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-418, 39-17-417(g)(1) and 40-35-111(e)(1).

    Verified Aug 27, 2026 · Source: tn.gov · Full Tennessee rule →

  • VirginiaConditional

    In Virginia, adults 21 and older may possess up to 1 ounce in public (Va. Code 4.1-1100). Between 1 ounce and 1 pound in public is a civil penalty or a misdemeanor, scaling with the amount, and larger home possession is allowed under the statute.

    Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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