Is Weed Legal in Uruguay?

Recreational Cannabis Laws

In December 2013, Uruguay became the first country in the world to fully legalize recreational cannabis. The law allows adults aged 18 and older to purchase, possess, and cultivate cannabis for personal use. The legislation was enacted to combat drug trafficking and improve public health by regulating the cannabis market. The government oversees the production and distribution of cannabis, ensuring quality control and safety for consumers.

Purchase Limits

Under Uruguayan law, individuals can purchase up to 40 grams of cannabis per week from licensed pharmacies. The price is typically set around 1 U.S. dollar per gram, making it an affordable option for users. Additionally, there are limits on the types of products available, primarily focusing on dried flower, with concentrates and edibles being less commonly available in pharmacies.

Possession Limits

Individuals are allowed to possess up to 40 grams of cannabis in public at any given time. At home, residents can store up to 480 grams of cannabis, which is the equivalent of the amount they can cultivate from their home-growing allowance. This possession limit is designed to ensure that users have enough supply for personal use while preventing excess that could lead to trafficking.

Home Growing

Uruguayans are permitted to grow cannabis at home, with each household allowed to cultivate up to six plants. The plants can be grown indoors or outdoors, but they must be secured to prevent unauthorized access. Home growers must register with the government to ensure compliance with regulations. There are no specific age restrictions for growing cannabis, but the general age requirement for legal cannabis activities is 18 years and older.

Where to Buy

Cannabis can be purchased at licensed pharmacies across Uruguay, which are regulated by the government. These pharmacies typically operate during standard business hours, and consumers must present a government-issued ID to verify their age and residency. Online ordering is not widely available for cannabis products, as the law emphasizes in-person purchases to maintain control over distribution.

Public Consumption

Public consumption of cannabis is generally prohibited in Uruguay. Users are encouraged to consume cannabis in private settings, such as their homes or designated private areas. Some cafes and social clubs may allow consumption on their premises, but this is subject to local regulations and varies by establishment. It is advisable for users to be aware of their surroundings and respect local norms regarding cannabis use.

Driving Laws

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal in Uruguay. The legal blood THC limit for drivers is not explicitly defined, but any detectable level can lead to penalties. Penalties for driving under the influence can include fines, license suspension, and possible imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Open container laws also apply, prohibiting the presence of cannabis in the vehicle while driving.

Important Restrictions

• Age requirements: Only individuals aged 18 and older can legally purchase and use cannabis.
• Crossing borders: It is illegal to transport cannabis across international borders, even to neighboring countries where cannabis may be legal.
• Workplace policies: Employers may have policies prohibiting cannabis use during work hours, and employees can be subject to drug testing.
• Tourism considerations: While tourists can legally purchase cannabis in Uruguay, they must adhere to the same laws and restrictions as residents, including possession limits and consumption regulations.