Cannabis laws are shifting across the globe, but Tennessee remains one of the strictest U.S. states when it comes to marijuana use. Recreational cannabis is illegal, and possession of even small amounts is treated as a criminal offense. While the state allows limited use of low-THC CBD oil for certain medical conditions, access remains highly restricted.
Key Takeaways
- Recreational marijuana is illegal in Tennessee, with strict penalties for possession, cultivation, and sale.
- Medical cannabis is limited to low-THC CBD oil (under 0.9%) for specific conditions and must be obtained from out of state.
- New regulations are emerging to restrict and oversee hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and THCA.
Historical Overview of Cannabis Regulation in Tennessee
Tennessee’s relationship with cannabis dates back to the 19th century, particularly through hemp cultivation. Hemp was valued for its strong fibers and was grown throughout the state, especially in river bottomlands.
During the mid-1800s, Tennessee lawmakers even lobbied the federal government to support hemp production, and the U.S. Navy briefly invested in a rope factory in Memphis.
While hemp had agricultural importance, marijuana remained illegal throughout the 20th century, aligned with national prohibition trends. It wasn’t until 2014 that Tennessee passed SB 2531, allowing limited use of cannabis oil for seizure patients, although the law required clinical oversight and was never implemented.
In 2015, Governor Bill Haslam signed SB 280, permitting the use of CBD oil with less than 0.9% THC for certain severe medical conditions like epilepsy. However, patients had to source the oil from out of state, and possession without proof of legal purchase remained a misdemeanor.
The law expanded slightly in 2021 with SB 118, broadening the list of qualifying medical conditions and maintaining the 0.9% THC cap. Despite discussions, broader legalization efforts, including a 2021 proposal to legalize medical and recreational cannabis, failed to gain traction in the state senate.
Medical Cannabis in Tennessee: Legal Provisions and Accessibility
Tennessee allows only limited use of medical cannabis, specifically low-THC CBD oil. Senate Bill 280, passed in 2015, legalized the possession of CBD oil containing less than 0.9% THC for patients with specific conditions, such as epilepsy. However, the law did not create any legal means for in-state production or sale, requiring patients to obtain the oil legally from other states. Possession without proof of legal purchase can still result in a misdemeanor charge.
Further changes came in 2021 through SB 118, which expanded the list of qualifying conditions to include Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cancer-related symptoms, Parkinson’s disease, and several others. Still, the law maintains the 0.9% THC threshold and does not permit whole-plant cannabis or higher-THC medical products.
Accessing medical CBD oil in Tennessee requires a written recommendation or prescription from a licensed physician. Even then, patients and caregivers are responsible for sourcing the oil from compliant out-of-state providers. While there have been attempts to introduce a more comprehensive medical cannabis program, none have succeeded so far, leaving Tennessee with one of the most limited medical cannabis frameworks in the U.S.
Current Legal Status of Recreational Marijuana in Tennessee
Recreational marijuana remains fully illegal in Tennessee. Possession, use, cultivation, and sale of cannabis for non-medical purposes are considered criminal offenses under state law, with no form of decriminalization currently in place statewide.
While cities like Nashville and Memphis attempted to decriminalize small-scale possession in 2016 by imposing only modest fines, these measures were later overturned by state legislation. A 2020 policy shift in Nashville led the district attorney to stop prosecuting possession cases involving less than half an ounce (14 grams). Still, this change is discretionary and does not alter the law itself.
Possession of any amount of marijuana is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. More serious charges, such as cultivation or distribution, can result in felony convictions, lengthy prison sentences, and fines reaching $500,000. For example, being caught with over 300 pounds of cannabis can lead to a prison term of 15 to 60 years.
Because penalties vary based on the amount, intent, and prior offenses, legal outcomes can differ widely. Despite evolving public opinion, Tennessee continues to enforce strict cannabis laws with no immediate plans for recreational legalization.
Possession, Cultivation, and Consumption: What’s Allowed in Tennessee?
Cannabis possession, cultivation, and consumption are strictly regulated in Tennessee, with marijuana remaining illegal for recreational use and only limited allowances for medical CBD oil.
Possession
Possessing half an ounce (14 grams) or less of marijuana is a Class A misdemeanor. First-time offenders face a mandatory $250 fine, up to one year in jail, and a maximum fine of $2,500.
Repeat offenses carry increased penalties, with second-time possession requiring a $500 minimum fine. A 2016 law (HB 1478) reduced third-time possession offenses from felonies to misdemeanors, lowering the long-term consequences of repeat minor possession charges.
Cultivation
Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Tennessee. Growing up to 10 plants is considered a Class E felony, punishable by one to six years in prison and up to $3,000 in fines.
Cultivating larger quantities can result in harsher felony charges, with penalties increasing significantly for more than 20 plants. Cultivation of 500 or more plants carries a Class A felony charge, up to 60 years in prison, and fines up to $500,000.
Consumption and Purchase
There is no legal framework for the recreational purchase or consumption of marijuana in Tennessee. All forms of cannabis with over 0.3% THC, including edibles and concentrates, are considered illegal.
Licensed hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are allowed and can be purchased in stores, but recreational marijuana use remains fully prohibited.
What Future for Cannabis Legislation in Tennessee?
As of April 2025, Tennessee lawmakers approved a new bill aimed at tightening regulations on hemp-derived cannabis products. The legislation proposes stricter licensing, tax rates, and enforcement rules, particularly targeting products like Delta-8 and THCA.
If signed by the governor, it would significantly limit the availability and sale of hemp-derived cannabinoids above 0.3% THC concentration.
Although broader marijuana legalization, either medical or recreational, has not advanced, the state is moving toward regulating its growing hemp market. For now, full cannabis legalization in Tennessee remains unlikely, but regulatory shifts signal increased oversight and ongoing legislative attention.
To Sum Up
Is marijuana legal in Tennessee? No. Recreational cannabis is fully illegal, and medical use is limited to low-THC CBD oil for specific conditions. Possession, cultivation, and sale of marijuana carry serious legal penalties, with no legal access for general use. Although some CBD products are permitted, all cannabis containing more than 0.3% THC remains banned.
Tennessee lawmakers continue to focus on regulating hemp-derived products rather than expanding access to cannabis. As laws evolve, it’s essential to stay informed through official state resources or legal updates to understand your rights and responsibilities regarding cannabis in Tennessee.
Rita Ferreira
Rita is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience, having worked with globally renowned platforms, including Forbes and Miister CBD. Her deep knowledge of hemp-related businesses and passion for delivering accurate and concise information distinguish her in the industry. Rita's contributions empower individuals and companies to navigate the complexities of the cannabis world, and her work remains a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of its potential.
