Iowa Marijuana Law
Updated August 27, 2026
Current Status: Medical
The Iowa Medical Cannabidiol Program allows for qualifying patients to purchase cannabis products from a state-licensed dispensary. The program has greatly expanded since its inception, and allows for the safe, regulated sale of medical marijuana. Recreational use of cannabis is still prohibited in the state.
Public Consumption Laws
It is still illegal to consume marijuana in public places in Iowa, and those caught doing so can face fines and/or jail time. This includes smoking, vaping, or eating marijuana-infused products.
Cannabis DUI Laws
Like with alcohol, it is illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana in Iowa. Violators can face fines and potential jail time, as well as potential license suspension or revocation.
Cultivation Laws
Growing marijuana for personal use is also illegal in Iowa. Those caught cultivating plants can face fines and/or jail time, depending on the amount being grown.
Possession Laws
Individuals who are part of the Iowa Medical Cannabidiol Program are permitted to purchase 4.5 grams of total THC every 90 days. Different from most states, this does not mean 4.5 grams of cannabis product. Instead, it refers to the total amount of THC in the products purchased during the 90 day window. Aside from medical marijuana, posession of recreational marijuana is strictly illegal and can result in harsh penalties.
Brief Legislative History
- In 1979, the state created a medical necessity defense for those charged with marijuana-related offenses for medical use.
- In 2014, Governor Terry Branstad signed The Medical Cannabidiol Act into law, which allowed individuals with intractable epilepsy to legally use cannabis. However, under this new law, the cultivation and sale of cannabis, was still illegal in the state of Iowa.
- In 2017, the program was expanded to allow for state-licensed facilities to cultivate and sell cannabis products to medical marijuana patients. The list of qualifying conditions was also expanded to include cancer, HIV/AIDS, and MS. Cannabis products were limited to 3% THC.
- In 2018, the first state-licensed dispensaries opened in the state.
- In 2020, Governor Kim Reynolds signed HF 2589, which removed the 3% THC limit, and replaced it with a 4.5-gram total THC purchasing limit every 90 days.
*The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult a licensed attorney.