Is Weed Legal in South Carolina?

Current Legal Status in South Carolina

Cannabis is illegal for both recreational and medical use in South Carolina. The state maintains strict prohibition with no comprehensive medical program.

Penalties for Possession

First-offense possession of 1 ounce or less is a misdemeanor with up to 30 days and a $200 fine. Second offense carries up to 1 year and $2,000. More than 1 ounce can trigger intent-to-distribute charges.

Penalties for Sale and Distribution

Selling, distributing, or manufacturing cannabis is a serious criminal offense in South Carolina. First-offense distribution of less than 10 pounds carries up to 5 years and $5,000. Trafficking over 10 pounds carries mandatory minimums up to 25 years.

Medical Cannabis

South Carolina does not have a comprehensive medical cannabis program. South Carolina has no medical program. The Compassionate Care Act passed the Senate in 2022 but did not pass the House. Senator Tom Davis has championed the bill for years with bipartisan support.

CBD and Hemp Products

Hemp-derived CBD products containing no more than 0.3% THC are generally legal in South Carolina following the 2018 federal Farm Bill. These products are available in retail stores and online.

Local Policies and Decriminalization

South Carolina has not decriminalized cannabis at the state level. All recreational possession remains a criminal offense.

Enforcement

Cannabis enforcement in South Carolina varies by jurisdiction. Urban areas may exercise more prosecutorial discretion for minor cases, while rural areas may enforce more strictly.

Reform Efforts and Future Outlook

The Compassionate Care Act remains the focus of reform efforts. House opposition has prevented passage. Recreational legalization is not considered a near-term possibility.

Impact of Cannabis Laws

Cannabis prohibition in South Carolina has broader social and economic implications. Arrests for cannabis offenses can create criminal records that affect employment opportunities, housing applications, educational financial aid, and professional licensing. Advocacy organizations argue that cannabis enforcement disproportionately affects minority communities and diverts law enforcement resources from more serious crimes. Supporters of current laws cite public health concerns and federal alignment as reasons to maintain prohibition.

Advice for Visitors

• Cannabis possession and use are illegal for recreational purposes and can result in arrest and criminal charges
• Travelers from legal states should not bring cannabis products into South Carolina
• A criminal record from a cannabis offense can have long-lasting consequences for employment, travel, and housing
• If you hold a medical cannabis card from another state, check whether South Carolina honors out-of-state cards before traveling with medical cannabis