Louisiana Cannabis Laws
Medical only — but decriminalized small amounts for everyone.
At a Glance
What Visitors Need to Know
Louisiana is medical-only but has decriminalized small amounts for non-patients (up to 14g is a civil fine, not criminal). Dispensaries are for card holders only but you won't go to jail for having a small amount as a visitor. The French Quarter in New Orleans has a permissive culture but the law still applies. Mississippi to the east is even more restricted.
Major Cities
New Orleans has a world-famous anything-goes culture and the enforcement of cannabis laws is extremely relaxed in practice, particularly in tourist areas. Possession of small amounts risks a civil fine, not criminal charges. That said, the law is still the law. Enjoy the city — the food, music, and culture are the draws anyway.
Baton Rouge has dispensary access for Louisiana medical patients. LSU campus creates demand. Enforcement of small-amount possession (decriminalized) is relaxed.
Shreveport has some medical dispensary access. The casino culture is the main draw. Texas border is close — Texas has no recreational either.
Dispensary hours, prices, and local rules change frequently. Always verify before visiting.
Legal Background
Louisiana's medical cannabis program has been operational since 2020 and was significantly expanded in 2022 to allow flower. The Legislature passed SB 21 in 2021 decriminalizing possession of up to 14g as a civil violation ($100 fine). Recreational sales remain illegal. Delivery is available for medical patients through licensed pharmacies.
Official State Sources
- Louisiana Revised Statutes § 40:1046 — Medical Cannabis Therapeutic ↗
- Louisiana SB 21 (2021) — Decriminalization ↗
State Agencies
Finding Local Rules
Louisiana's medical cannabis is distributed through licensed pharmacies. Small amounts are decriminalized for everyone but recreational sales remain illegal.
"cannabis ordinance" "adult use cannabis" "retail cannabis license"