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Adult-Use & Medical — LegalNorth America

Ohio

Ohio legalized medical cannabis in 2016 under House Bill 523 and adult-use cannabis in November 2023 via Issue 2 (citizen initiative), with adult-use sales launching in August 2024 through existing medical dispensaries. The Division of Cannabis Control, under the Ohio Department of Commerce, regulates all licensing and enforcement. Senate Bill 56, signed in December 2025 and effective March 20, 2026, substantially overhauled the program by capping dispensaries at 400 statewide, limiting individual ownership to eight dispensary licenses, and banning intoxicating hemp products. Ohio's cannabis market surpassed $3 billion in cumulative all-time sales by early 2026, including over $1 billion in 2025 alone. As of March 2026, 204 dispensaries hold dual-use certificates. The state imposes a 10% excise tax on adult-use sales.

Ask the Expert about Ohio
Regulator
Ohio Division of Cannabis Control, Department of Commerce
Key Legislation
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3780 — Adult Use Cannabis
Year Legalized
2016
Program Size
204 dual-use dispensaries; $1B+ sales...

Key Facts

  • Adult-use legalized via Issue 2 citizen initiative in November 2023; retail sales began August 2024
  • SB 56 (effective March 2026) caps dispensaries at 400 statewide and limits individual ownership to eight licenses
  • Over $3 billion in cumulative all-time cannabis sales through early 2026
  • 10% excise tax on adult-use sales with tax distributions to nearly 100 host communities since January 2026
  • SB 56 effectively bans intoxicating hemp products by redefining hemp

Key Legislation

Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3780 — Adult Use Cannabis (Issue 2, as amended by SB 56)

Regulatory Body

Ohio Division of Cannabis Control, Department of Commerce

Country Info
ISO Code
US
Region
North America
Tier
Tier 1 — Active Program
Status
Adult-Use & Medical — Legal
Sources
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3780 — Adult Use CannabisOhio Division of Cannabis Control
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.