Medcards.org
870-686-5136
Is Marijuana Legal in Arkansas 2026
Updated 31/07/2026
Is Marijuana Legal in Arkansas 2026?
Yes, marijuana is legal in Arkansas for medical purposes as of 2016, following the approval of the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment. Recreational use remains illegal statewide. Patients must obtain a registry identification card through the Arkansas Department of Health Medical Marijuana Patient Registry System to legally purchase medical cannabis.
Arkansas Marijuana Possession Laws
Registered Arkansas medical marijuana patients may purchase up to 2.5 ounces of medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries during a rolling 14-day period. Each purchase counts against the patient’s available balance for 14 days. Possessing marijuana outside the protections of the state medical cannabis program may result in criminal penalties.
Arkansas Marijuana Cultivation Laws
Cultivation of marijuana for personal use remains illegal in Arkansas, even for medical marijuana patients. All medical cannabis must be purchased from a state-licensed dispensary. Unauthorized cultivation can lead to felony charges, with penalties depending on the amount cultivated.
Arkansas Marijuana Penalties
Penalties for marijuana-related offenses in Arkansas vary based on the quantity and intent. Possession over the legal limit for patients or by non-patients can lead to misdemeanors or felonies. Distribution and cultivation offenses carry harsher penalties, potentially including years of imprisonment and thousands in fines.
Who can recommend medical marijuana in Arkansas?
Only an Arkansas-licensed Medical Doctor or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine may complete the Physician Written Certification. The physician must be in good standing, hold a DEA controlled-substances registration, maintain a bona fide physician-patient relationship, and confirm that the patient has a qualifying medical condition. The certification is not a medical prescription.
Common Questions about Arkansas Marijuana Laws.
Can you smoke marijuana in public in the state of Arkansas? 
No, smoking marijuana in public is illegal in Arkansas, even for medical marijuana patients. Public consumption can lead to legal penalties.
Can anyone go to a dispensary in Arkansas?
Registered qualifying patients may purchase medical marijuana from licensed Arkansas dispensaries. Registered designated caregivers may purchase on behalf of eligible patients, and approved visiting patients may purchase during the validity of their Arkansas visiting patient card.
Is marijuana a felony in Arkansas?
Possession of marijuana can be a felony in Arkansas if the amount exceeds certain limits or if the individual has prior offenses. The specific charges depend on the circumstances and quantity involved.
What happens if you get caught with marijuana in Arkansas?
If caught with marijuana in Arkansas, the consequences range from fines and potential jail time for minor possession to significant prison sentences for larger amounts or intent to distribute.
How much is a possession of marijuana ticket in Arkansas?
The cost of a marijuana possession ticket in Arkansas can vary. Minor possession might result in fines up to $2,500, while larger amounts can lead to much higher fines and additional criminal charges.
Are edibles legal in Arkansas?
Yes, edibles are legal for registered medical marijuana patients in Arkansas. They can be purchased from licensed dispensaries.
Is CBD legal in Arkansas?
Certain hemp-derived CBD products are legal in Arkansas when they comply with the state’s consumable hemp requirements. Retailers must hold the required Arkansas Tobacco Control permit, and regulated products must meet the state’s testing, labeling, THC, and product-directory requirements. Consumable hemp products may not be sold to anyone under 21. Marijuana-derived products remain limited to Arkansas’s regulated medical marijuana program.