Is smoking pot legal in South Carolina?
The short answer to this question is no. In the state of South Carolina, it is illegal to possess, buy, sell, cultivate, distribute, or transport any amount of marijuana for recreational use, even if it is a small amount. This includes both medical and recreational marijuana.
Marijuana Possession in South Carolina
Possession of any amount of marijuana in South Carolina is illegal and can lead to criminal penalties. The penalties vary based on the amount of marijuana in question and previous possession offenses.
• Up to one ounce can result in up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of $200
• More than one ounce can result in up to three years in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000
• Possession of more than 10 pounds can result in up to 10 years in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000
Cultivation, Distribution, and Transportation of Marijuana
It is illegal in South Carolina to cultivate or distribute any amount of marijuana for recreational use. Penalties for these offenses can include:
• Cultivation: up to 15 years in jail and a maximum fine of $20,000
• Distribution: up to 15 years in jail and a maximum fine of $30,000
• Transportation: up to 15 years in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000
Medical Marijuana in South Carolina
At this time, there are no laws in South Carolina that allow for medical marijuana use. In 2017, a bill was introduced to legalize medical marijuana in the state, however it did not progress any further.
Conclusion
In South Carolina, it is illegal to possess, buy, sell, cultivate, distribute, or transport any form of marijuana for recreational use. There are also no laws in the state that allow for medical marijuana use. The penalties for these offenses can vary from a fine to a substantial amount of jail time.
