Jul 233 min read

NY Home Grow Rules: Everything You Need to Know About Growing Weed in NY

New York has finally approved regulations allowing adults to grow cannabis at home for personal use. Here are the key details you need to know about cultivating marijuana legally in the Empire State:

Plant Limits

Under the new regulations, adults 21 and older can grow up to six cannabis plants at home, with a maximum of three mature plants at any given time. For households with multiple adults, the limit increases to 12 total plants, but still only six can be mature.

Possession Limits

Home growers are permitted to harvest and possess up to five pounds of cannabis flower from their plants. Cultivators also have the option to convert their harvested flower into concentrates.

Location Requirements

Cannabis must be grown on private property, such as in a private residence or on the grounds of a private residence. This includes areas like backyards or land adjacent to the home where the individual has legal rights to use the space.

Purchasing Seeds and Plants

Adults will be able to purchase seeds for cultivation. Additionally, licensed providers will be allowed to sell immature plants to home growers. This gives cultivators flexibility in how they start their grow operations.

Storage and Safety

The regulations include requirements for proper storage of plants and harvested cannabis. Growers must also take steps to remediate any odors that may become a nuisance to neighbors. Some general guidelines for safe storage include:

Store cannabis products in their original containers with labels intact.
Keep cannabis in a secure, locked place out of sight and reach of children and pets.
Consider using a safe or lockbox with a combination lock or keypad.
Maintain an inventory of cannabis products in your home.

Medical vs. Recreational Timeline

While medical marijuana patients have been allowed to grow at home since 2022, recreational home cultivation rules have just been finalized.

Public Comment Period

The approved draft regulations will now undergo a 60-day public comment period before being finalized. This allows New Yorkers to provide feedback on the proposed rules.

Key Questions About Home Growing Cannabis in New York

How many plants can I grow?

Adults 21 and older can grow up to 6 plants at home (3 mature and 3 immature) per person, with a maximum of 12 plants per household (6 mature and 6 immature).

Where can I grow cannabis plants?

Cannabis can be grown in residences that you own or rent, including homes, apartments, mobile homes, co-ops, and other residential spaces.

How much cannabis can I possess from home cultivation?

You can have up to 5 pounds of trimmed cannabis and the equivalent weight in concentrates in or on the grounds of your private residence.

Can I sell the cannabis I grow at home?

No, it is illegal to sell, trade, or barter with homegrown cannabis.

Are there any restrictions on growing methods?

Yes, the use of flammable materials for extraction is prohibited. Alternative extraction methods such as heat, water, or fermentation are recommended.

What precautions should I take when growing cannabis at home?

Some key precautions include:

Taking measures to prevent cannabis odor from becoming a nuisance to neighbors.
Keeping plants secure and inaccessible to people under 21.
Using proper electrical setups to prevent fires.
Monitoring indoor air quality and controlling mold/fungus.
Following guidance on safer use of pesticides.

Can landlords prohibit cannabis cultivation?

Landlords can only refuse to lease space or penalize a tenant for cannabis cultivation if they risk losing federal benefits.