July 4, 2025 | Drug Crimes
Recreational marijuana is now legal in Ohio, but that doesn’t mean you can order it online and have it shipped to your door. While adults 21 and over can legally buy cannabis from licensed dispensaries, mail-order weed and delivery are still not permitted under state law.
That said, there’s one exception: certain hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal and may be ordered online or shipped within the state. However, when it comes to traditional marijuana, mailing it is still illegal and could lead to drug crimes charges.
What Does Ohio Law Allow?
Under Ohio’s recreational marijuana law, adults 21 and over can now:
- Possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis
- Purchase marijuana from state-licensed dispensaries
- Use cannabis on private property
However, the law does not allow for recreational cannabis delivery at this time. Whether it’s a local courier or an online company shipping across state lines, delivery of marijuana products with over 0.3% THC is currently illegal under Ohio law.
So even though you can buy marijuana legally at a licensed dispensary, you still have to go in person to make that purchase, at least as of now.
Can You Order Cannabis Online in Any Form?
While you can’t legally order recreational marijuana online in Ohio, some cannabis-related products are legal for mail-order. These typically fall under the category of hemp products, which are legal under federal law so long as they contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
These legal hemp products may include:
- CBD oils and tinctures
- Gummies or edibles made from hemp-derived cannabinoids
- Delta-8 THC products (though regulation of these is evolving)
These items can often be purchased from Ohio-based or out-of-state companies and shipped directly to consumers. However, it’s important to verify that the product complies with both federal rules and Ohio’s hemp program. If the THC content is too high, it could be treated as illegal marijuana under the law.
Why Mailing Marijuana Is Still Illegal
Marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law. This means shipping cannabis with more than 0.3% THC through the mail (even between legal states) is a federal offense.
Mailing or receiving illegal cannabis products may lead to charges such as:
- Drug possession
- Intent to distribute
- Drug trafficking
- Use of a mail system to commit a crime
Even if you’re in Ohio and ordering from a legal marijuana state like Michigan or California, once it goes through the postal system or across state lines, you’re in violation of federal law.
What Happens if You’re Caught?
Getting caught with illegally mailed marijuana in Ohio can lead to both state and federal charges. Depending on the amount and the circumstances, you could face fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record, among other consequences.
The penalties may increase if authorities believe the marijuana was intended for resale or if it involves larger amounts. The charges can also be more severe if federal agencies are involved (such as if the product was shipped through USPS).
Contact the Cincinnati Criminal Defense Lawyers at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for Help Today
Even though marijuana laws in Ohio are changing, mailing cannabis is still illegal in most cases. If you’ve been accused of ordering or receiving weed through the mail, you should set up a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney right away.
If you’re facing criminal charges, we’re here to help. Contact our Cincinnati DUI lawyers at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers at (513) 333-0014 for a free consultation today.
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