Where to Buy Weed in New York City: A Comprehensive Guide

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## Introduction

where to buy weed in ny

Since the legalization of recreational marijuana in New York City in 2021, the cannabis industry has seen significant growth. However, with the slow licensing process for legal dispensaries, illegal pot shops have proliferated across the city. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the current state of the legal weed market in New York City, where to find licensed dispensaries, and what you need to know before making a purchase.

Is Weed Legal in New York City?

Yes, weed is legal in New York City for individuals who are 21 years and older. The Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) decriminalized possession and use of marijuana while setting up a framework for regulations. Under the MRTA, individuals can possess, use, buy, transport, smoke, or consume up to three ounces of marijuana and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis.

However, it’s important to note that smoking cannabis is prohibited in areas where smoking cigarettes is not allowed, such as public parks, restaurants, bars, and the subway.

Legal vs. Illegal Pot Shops

While the licensing of retail dispensaries has been slow, illegal pot shops have been popping up all over the city. These unlicensed shops often sell products that have not been tested for safety and may not meet quality standards. To ensure you are purchasing from a legal and regulated dispensary, look for the Dispensary Verification Tool, a blue and white sticker with a QR code that verifies the shop’s licensing status. The Office of Cannabis Management maintains a list of licensed dispensaries where you can check if a shop is authorized.

Licensed Dispensaries in New York City

Here are some of the licensed dispensaries where you can legally purchase recreational marijuana in New York City:

1. Good Grades

Location: 162-03 Jamaica Avenue, Queens
Hours: Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week
Delivery: No

Good Grades is Queens’ first cannabis shop, owned and operated by Extasy James and her cousin. This women-owned, family-operated business is significant as it is operated by someone with a past marijuana conviction.

2. Gotham

Location: 3 E 3rd St, New York, Queens, N.Y.
Hours: Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week
Delivery: Not listed

Gotham is not just a dispensary but also a unique experience. In addition to purchasing marijuana, customers can find various items like pillows, books, pottery, candles, and clothing. The dispensary also hosts art, music, and performance events.

3. Housing Works Cannabis

Location: 750 Broadway, Manhattan
Hours: Open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Delivery: Yes

Housing Works Cannabis holds the distinction of being the first-ever legal recreational dispensary in New York City. All proceeds from this store go toward Housing Works’ efforts to support individuals with a history of substance abuse, homelessness, or previous arrests for weed possession.

4. Smacked LLC

Location: 144 Bleecker St., Manhattan
Hours: Sunday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monday to Wednesday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Thursday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Delivery: No

Smacked LLC is New York City’s first cannabis shop owned and operated by someone with a past marijuana conviction. The dispensary received funding from the New York Social Equity Cannabis Investment Fund, which supports equity entrepreneurs in the adult-use cannabis market.

5. Statis Cannabis Company

Location: 817 E Tremont Ave., The Bronx
Hours: Hours not currently listed
Delivery: Future plans for delivery

Statis Cannabis Company is the first woman-owned, minority-owned dispensary opening in the Bronx. The owner, a former special education teacher, and her business partner, who has experience selling marijuana before it was legal, are committed to providing a diverse and inclusive cannabis shopping experience.

6. Union Square Travel Agency

Location: 62 East 13th St., Manhattan
Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Delivery: Delivery available via Doobie. Check their website for availability.

Union Square Travel Agency is run by a subsidiary of the nonprofit organization The Doe Fund, which assists individuals struggling with poverty, homelessness, and incarceration. They have also partnered with a delivery service called Doobie to offer convenient delivery options. where to buy weed in ny

Taxation and Regulation

When purchasing legal marijuana in New York City, it’s important to consider the taxation and regulation involved. Buyers of legal cannabis products are subject to a minimum 13% tax on their purchases. Additionally, distributors of cannabis products are required to pay a separate tax when selling to retailers, with the tax rate varying based on the product’s potency. where to buy weed in ny

The Future of the Cannabis Market in New York

While the licensing process for dispensaries has been slow, efforts are being made to expedite the opening of more stores. The Office of Cannabis Management has allowed licensees to open their own dispensaries and offer delivery services to increase accessibility. The state’s Dormitory Authority is also providing low-interest loans to help licensees establish their own sites.

Additionally, on-site consumption licenses, similar to bars serving alcohol, are in the works. Although regulations for full-fledged cannabis consumption businesses have not been finalized, limited retail consumption facilities attached to existing dispensaries have been approved.

Medical Marijuana and Home Growing

Medical marijuana dispensaries are still open and operating in New York City. Individuals can join the medical cannabis program, which allows them to access a range of medical marijuana products. Medical dispensaries often offer discounts and loyalty programs for patients.

As for home growing, individuals who are 21 years or older and registered as medical cannabis patients can grow up to six plants at home, with three mature and three immature plants. However, rules and regulations for non-medical cannabis home growing are yet to be established. where to buy weed in ny

Conclusion

As the legal cannabis market in New York City continues to evolve, it’s crucial to purchase from licensed dispensaries to ensure the safety and quality of the products. With the opening of more stores and the implementation of on-site consumption licenses, the cannabis industry is poised to grow further in the city. Whether you choose to purchase recreational or medical marijuana, it’s important to stay informed about the regulations and laws surrounding cannabis use in New York City. where to buy weed in ny