Green Spots to Graze: Your Ultimate Guide to Legally Buying Weed in NYC
Hello, fellow New Yorkers! Ever since the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) was signed into law on March 31, 2021, we’ve been eagerly awaiting the day when our city would join other states in legalizing adult-use cannabis. Well, the wait is finally over! So, let’s dive into the exciting world of legally buying weed in NYC, your friendly guide by your side.
First things first: On January 22, 2022, New York State’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) approved the first Adult-Use Retail Dispensaries (AURD). As of this writing, there are a handful of these legal cannabis shops open for business. But don’t fret if you haven’t seen one pop up in your neighborhood just yet; it will take time for more to emerge as licenses are granted and locations are secured.
So, where can you buy weed legally in NYC right now? Here are some of the current AURDs in the city:
1. Haven CBD & Cannabis Co. – Located at 219 West 36th Street in Midtown Manhattan, Haven offers a wide variety of cannabis products, including flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, and concentrates. Their knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you with any questions you may have about the products or strains available.
2. Verde Natural – With locations in Soho (56 Crosby Street) and the Upper East Side (1394 Third Avenue), Verde Natural offers a welcoming atmosphere, where their team is eager to help you find the perfect strain for your needs. They offer an array of flowers, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, and concentrates.
3. Gotham Green – New Yorkers can visit Gotham Green’s AURD at 201 West 14th Street in the Flatiron District for a wide selection of cannabis products. They offer flowers, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, and concentrates to suit various preferences.
Remember that you must be 21 years old or older with a valid ID to purchase adult-use cannabis in these stores. You may also need to register for the New York State Cannabis Regulation & Taxation (CART) system before making your first purchase. The process is simple and can be done online, so don’t let that deter you!
Now that you know where to find legal weed in NYC, it’s essential to understand the rules around cannabis possession and consumption:
1. Adults 21 and older may possess up to three ounces of cannabis in public and have up to five grams of concentrated cannabis.
2. Cannabis consumption is only allowed in private residences, not on the streets or public places.
3. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal, so always ensure you’re sober before getting behind the wheel.
4. You cannot bring cannabis across state lines, as possession remains federally illegal in most states.
New York City has a long history with cannabis, and it’s exciting to see this industry growing in a legal and responsible manner. As more dispensaries open their doors, we’ll have even more opportunities to explore the wonderful world of cannabis and all its benefits. Stay tuned for updates on new shops, strains, and products hitting the shelves! Happy exploring, fellow New Yorkers!