Is recreational marijuana legal in Florida — the answer is NO. In 2025, recreational use remains prohibited, even though the state operates a well-established medical marijuana program for qualified patients.
In November 2024, Florida voters considered Amendment 3, a proposal to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. The measure received 56% approval — a majority, but short of the 60% supermajority required for constitutional amendments. As a result, it failed, leaving Florida under a medical-use-only framework.
Under state law, marijuana possession without a valid medical card is a criminal offense. Having 20 grams or less can lead to up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Possessing more than 20 grams is treated as a felony, with significantly harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.
Some local governments, such as Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties, have adopted civil citation programs for small amounts. In these areas, offenders may face a fine rather than arrest. However, state law still classifies marijuana possession as illegal, so these local policies only apply within their respective jurisdictions.
While Amendment 3 did not pass, the strong level of public support suggests legalization efforts are far from over. Many advocates believe the measure could reappear on the ballot in the coming years, especially as attitudes toward cannabis continue to shift nationwide.
Until then, the answer to “Is recreational marijuana legal in Florida?” remains no, and only qualified medical marijuana patients can legally use cannabis in the state.
The Florida medical marijuana program allows patients with certain qualifying conditions — such as cancer, epilepsy, PTSD, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain — to legally access cannabis.
To participate, patients must be evaluated by a state-licensed physician who is authorized to recommend medical marijuana. Once approved, patients are registered in the Medical Marijuana Use Registry and issued a card that must be renewed every year.
Since Florida remains a medical-use-only state, it’s important to keep your card active. Ozark MMJ Cards helps returning patients renew their medical marijuana cards through quick and convenient telehealth appointments. If you already have your card through our doctor, you can renew your Florida medical marijuana card online here in just minutes.
We offer the lowest renewal price in Florida — without sacrificing quality or convenience.
We make the process simple and affordable:
Renew Your Florida Medical Marijuana Card Now
Resources