Curbside pickup for cannabis is legal in some US states and illegal in others. No federal law allows it. Legality comes from state cannabis rules. Rules vary by license type: medical or adult-use. Local governments may also ban it.
cannabis curbside pickup hours
Federal law
Cannabis is a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA classifies it with heroin and LSD. Federal law does not recognize medical or adult-use cannabis. Curbside pickup is not a federal category. A state license does not protect you from federal law. Federal enforcement is rare but possible.
State law
States that legalized cannabis set their own rules. Some states allow curbside pickup. Others do not. The rules change. Check your state cannabis regulator. As of 2024, states that have allowed curbside pickup include California, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Colorado. Each state limits who can use it.
Medical vs adult-use
Many states allow curbside pickup for medical cannabis patients only. Adult-use customers must go inside. California's AB 1302 (2021) allowed curbside pickup for medical patients. Massachusetts allowed curbside pickup for medical patients during COVID-19. Nevada and Colorado have allowed curbside pickup for both medical and adult-use under certain conditions.
Local rules
Cities and counties can ban curbside pickup. A state license does not override a local ban. Check local ordinances. Some cities require a separate permit.
Rules at pickup
- Show a government ID. The employee checks your age.
- You must be 21+ for adult-use. You must be 18+ for medical in some states.
- You cannot enter the store. You stay in your vehicle or outside.
- Purchase limits apply. You cannot buy more than the state limit.
- The employee brings the product to you. Payment methods vary. Some stores accept cash only.
How to check
Go to your state cannabis regulator's website. Search for 'curbside pickup' or 'retail operations'. Read the rules for your license type. Call the dispensary. Ask if they offer curbside pickup. Ask if it is legal in your city.
Risks
Federal agents can enforce the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA has not targeted curbside pickup. But the risk is not zero. State law does not protect you from federal charges. Possession limits still apply.