When will recreational marijuana sales start in Virginia?

Retail recreational marijuana sales in Virginia are targeted to begin November 1, 2026 under HB 642. The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority must finalize regulations by September 1, 2026. Up to 350 retail stores will be licensed statewide.

Is recreational marijuana legal in Virginia now?

Marijuana possession is legal in Virginia for adults 21+. Adults can possess up to 1 ounce (increasing to 2.5 ounces under HB 642) and grow up to 4 plants at home. However, there are currently no legal retail stores—only 23 medical dispensaries serve registered patients.

Can I buy weed legally in Virginia?

Not recreationally—yet. The only legal way to purchase marijuana in Virginia today is with a medical marijuana card from one of 23 licensed dispensaries. Recreational retail stores will not open until November 2026 at the earliest.

How much will Virginia recreational marijuana tax be?

Virginia's proposed recreational marijuana tax is 8-9% state excise tax plus up to 3.5% local tax, totaling approximately 12-17%. Medical marijuana patients pay only standard sales tax (5-6%), saving roughly $200-450 annually compared to recreational purchases.

Should I keep my Virginia medical marijuana card after recreational sales start?

Yes. Medical patients pay about 5.5% tax versus 12-17% recreational tax—savings of $200-450+ per year for regular users. Medical cards also offer higher possession limits, no THC caps on products, and access for ages 18-20.

How many Virginia marijuana dispensaries will there be?

Virginia will have up to 350 licensed retail marijuana stores under HB 642. Currently, 23 medical dispensaries operate across the state. No single company can own more than 5 retail locations, and 50% of licenses are reserved for social equity applicants.

Can Virginia localities ban marijuana sales?

No. Unlike many states, Virginia's HB 642 does not allow cities or counties to opt out of marijuana sales. All localities must permit retail cannabis, though local governments retain zoning authority over store locations and buffer zones.

What conditions qualify for medical marijuana in Virginia?

Virginia has no specific list of qualifying conditions. Any diagnosed condition or disease that a registered practitioner determines could benefit from cannabis treatment qualifies. Common conditions include chronic pain, PTSD, cancer, anxiety, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.

How much does a Virginia medical marijuana card cost?

A Virginia medical marijuana card costs $149 for the physician evaluation through MMJ.com. Virginia charges no state registration fee, making $149 your total cost. Cards are valid for one year and can be renewed online.

Laws

Virginia Recreational Marijuana Sales: Everything You Need to Know About 2026 Legalization

MMJ.com Medical Team

February 2, 2026

10 min read

Written by

John Progar

About the Author

This article was written by the MMJ.com Medical Team, a group of licensed healthcare professionals specializing in medical cannabis certification. Our team has helped over 10,000 patients obtain their medical marijuana cards.

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