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Recreational Marijuana 101: All the Basics You Need to Know

The legalization of marijuana has been a hot topic for decades. It seems like each new year brings more and more states to legalize the recreational use of marijuana, with California being one of the latest. Legalization is an evolving area, but there are some basics you need to know if you're considering using it recreationally or medicinally.

Recreational Marijuana 101: All the Basics You Need to Know

What Is Recreational Marijuana?

Recreational marijuana is the use of cannabis for enjoyment, not medical purposes. The substance’s psychoactive ingredients are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoids. People often smoke it in hand-rolled cigarettes called joints or they may inhale it using a pipe known as a bong. Another common method is through vaporization via e-cigarettes or vape pens which turn liquid THC into an inhalable vapor without burning the plant material.


What Should You Know Before Trying Recreational Weed?

Before giving recreational marijuana any consideration, make sure that you understand all the laws governing its purchase, possession, and consumption where you live; different states have their own individual rules on how much one can buy at once if you can buy it at all.


Don’t forget to research the dispensary itself before making a purchase, as well; make sure that its staff are knowledgeable about their product and aren’t likely to sell you something laced with chemicals or other drugs. Keep in mind also that there are different strains of weed for different effects – some will be more psychoactive than others, while still others may contain CBD oil which is known for having relaxing properties without causing intoxication.

Who Can Buy Recreational Marijuana?

Anyone over the age of 21 years can buy recreational marijuana. This means you do not need to have a doctor’s note or medical card in order to purchase cannabis products that are used for recreational use.

Recreational customers must be present when buying marijuana at dispensaries because they will need an ID with proof of age upon entry into the dispensary. Additionally, recreational sales also happen online but rules and regulations vary by state so make sure you know the laws governing the use of recreational marijuana where you're located.


Where Can You Buy Legal Recreational Marijuana?

Legal recreational marijuana can only be bought in states where it is legal. You cannot buy or sell it anywhere else, even if you are living somewhere that allows the sale of medical marijuana.


You can buy recreational marijuana at dispensaries or stores that sell legal weed for adult use across California or other states where it has been made legal.


Be prepared to bring cash. These are businesses that operate in an all-cash economy, so you will need actual money when shopping for recreational weed or medical marijuana. Don't assume your credit card or debit cards are accepted because they probably won't be. Though most dispensaries have ATMs, it is better to be prepared by calling ahead to check if they only accept cash.


Why Are Credit Cards Not Accepted In Marijuana Dispensaries?

It’s the same reason why recreational marijuana is not covered by health insurance: there simply isn't enough research to prove that it works and that it doesn't cause harm. Recreational marijuana has only been legal in a handful of states, and even then, its legality changes from state to state.


Additionally, the U.S. Department of Justice still considers marijuana a Schedule I drug along with heroin and ecstasy because it has “no currently accepted medical use” according to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). As such, dispensaries that sell recreational weed operate in an all-cash economy where anything sold is considered income for tax purposes even if you don't necessarily make money on every sale made.


Do I Have To Pay Tax?

Yes, you should expect to pay sales tax on whatever amount of legal cannabis products purchased at local dispensaries and stores where recreational marijuana can be bought legally across California and other states that allow its sale by adults over 21 years old only. It's also best if you have a form of state-issued ID on you if the store asks to see it.


Where Am I Allowed To Use Recreational Marijuana?

One of the most important parts of recreational marijuana is knowing where you can use it. Recreational marijuana is legal in California, but there are some places where you cannot smoke or vape the substance legally. Some examples include:

  • on school grounds

  • inside a car

  • within 1000 feet from schools

  • within 600 feet from youth centers and parks

It's also good to know if your landlord has any rules against smoking weed when leasing an apartment so check with them before lighting up!


How Much Recreational Marijuana Can I Buy In California?

In 2018, Californians over 21 years old may purchase up to one ounce of marijuana flower from a licensed dispensary with no doctor's letter required. In addition, buyers over 21 years old may purchase up to eight grams of cannabis concentrates and edibles containing ten milligrams per serving size.


Potential customers must be aware that they cannot smoke or consume weed in public places as well as any place where tobacco smoking is prohibited by law.

We hope you’ve found the information here helpful and informative. If you have any questions or need more in-depth advice, don’t hesitate to call us! Our experts are happy to answer your questions about recreational marijuana use!

Are You Looking For Cannabis Products You Can Trust?


Dixon Wellness is on a mission to bring safe, affordable, and compassionate access to cannabis to the people of Northern California and beyond. Our products have been lab-tested by independent, state-licensed laboratories so they can be free of any harmful contaminants while ensuring that we keep the cost down for our loyal customers. We are constantly working with credible brands, legacy farmers, and environmentally conscious producers in order to help sustain our community! Dixon’s first and only women-led cannabis resource, we are founded on the pillars of community, compassion, and education. Interested in our products? Check out our online menu or plan your visit today!

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