What Drugs are Legal in Colorado?

Colorado’s drug laws can be confusing. The state has numerous restrictions on drug possession and use, but there are some that can be used for recreational purposes. What drugs are legal in Colorado? Before you take any recreational drugs, know the laws on what is allowable, including when marijuana is accessible for legal use. Speak with a Denver drug possession lawyer today about your case.

Recreational Drug Legality in Colorado

Marijuana laws in Colorado allow those who are over the age of 21 to use the substance for recreational purposes. However, to do so, there are still several specific rules that apply. Those who are 21 or older may possess up to two ounces of the drug at a time. Also, note that you cannot use it in any public places or on federal property. Ideally, drug use should be in a private setting.

The laws restrict the use of purchasing and giving the drug to those who are under the age of 21, and when making a purchase, you must do so through a licensed provider. You can only purchase one ounce of marijuana products in a transaction. This limits access to a large supply of the substance.

In order to purchase marijuana, you must:

• Provide a valid ID to the retailer (the retailer is required to check every customer’s identification)
• Buy between the hours of 8 am and midnight
• A label on the product must state that it includes the presence of THC
• The packaging a retailer sells to you must be child-resistant and resealable.
• You cannot transport the substance across state lines.
• You cannot take marijuana into the airport.

It is legal in Colorado for anyone to grow medical marijuana, to a limit of no more than six plants per person with no more than three in the flowering stage at a single time.

Medical Marijuana Legality in Colorado

Medical marijuana is a bit different under Colorado laws. It allows people who have a qualified medical condition, recognized under the state’s laws, to request an identification card to use to purchase marijuana. The card will provide retailers with the information they need to allow you to purchase medical marijuana with the following considerations:

• Medical marijuana is available for those who are age 18 or older
• A person with a car can possess and purchase up to two ounces of usable marijuana at one time
• You can purchase it from licensed medical marijuana stores and retailers
• If you do not have a medical marijuana license from the state, you cannot enter such a retailer
• If you use your medical marijuana card for any reason outside of the legal scope, you could face up to 18 months in jail and a fine of $5,000.

Psilocybin Laws

Though Colorado law approved the decriminalization of psilocybin in 2022, it is still not legal to openly and publicly display the use of the substance, including any type of psychedelic mushrooms or derivatives. Note that this is not the same as recreational or medical-approved use. It is still illegal to sell these products, share them, or use them in public. However, cultivating, possessing, and consumption of them is no longer going to result in a criminal charge.

Understanding drug laws in Colorado is critical to protecting your rights while also minimizing criminal charges. Seek out an attorney for guidance on fighting any charges you may be facing.