Are There Recreational Dispensaries in Vermont?
Buying Recreational Marijuana in the Green Mountain State
Recreational cannabis was first legalized in Vermont in 2018 after Governor Phil Scott (R) signed Act 86, eliminating penalties for possession of limited quantities of cannabis for adults 21 and older. Since then, many have been left wondering when recreational dispensaries will start opening their doors to customers in the Green Mountain State.
Give me the scoop: As of October 1, 2022, recreational cannabis dispensaries have officially opened to the public.
Mountain Girl Cannabis was the first dispensary licensed for recreational retail in the state.
Customers only need to present a valid (not expired or temporary paper copy) government-issued ID to enter a recreational dispensary in Vermont.
Read on to find out even more about recreational marijuana sales in the Green Mountain State!
Does Vermont Have Recreational Dispensaries?
It’s been a long time coming, but recreational cannabis dispensaries have finally made their way to Vermont. According to the Marijuana Policy Project, Vermont joins 14 other states in legalizing adult-use cannabis sales.
In addition to Vermont, Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. have also legalized the use of recreational marijuana. However, it took four years for the Green Mountain State to finally legalize cannabis sales. Depending on how quickly other states can establish their legislation, it could be some time before recreational dispensaries open their doors.
When do Recreational Dispensaries Open in Vermont?
The first recreational dispensaries opened in Vermont on October 1, 2022. Only three dispensaries were licensed in time for the grand opening: Mountain Girl Cannabis in Rutland, FLORA Cannabis in Middlebury, and CeresMED in Burlington. A fourth recreational dispensary was licensed but was not ready to sell by opening weekend.
Mountain Girl Cannabis wasn’t just among the first to open its doors to the public. It was also the first to be licensed for recreational cannabis sales in the state.
According to the Cannabis Control Board, regulators are expecting additional retail applications to come through for consideration. Currently, there are 27 pending applications at different stages of the review and approval process. That means there could be dozens more retail locations opening up shop in the not-so-distant future.
What do You Need to Enter a Recreational Cannabis Dispensary?
Customers must present a government-issued photo ID at the door to ensure they are 21 years or older. IDs are inspected at the door prior to entering the shop, so be sure to have yours easily accessible upon arrival. Only valid IDs may be accepted for entrance — not expired or temporary paper copies.
Patrons aren’t the only ones who must adhere to strict guidance under recreational retail laws. Stores are required to have video surveillance at all entry and exit points, the point of sale, and anywhere products are stored or handled. Employees must also wear an ID badge and limit the number of customers in the store for easier management. That means there may be a small wait to enter the store.
Mountain Girl Cannabis is proud to be licensed number-one in Vermont for recreational cannabis retail. Come explore our variety of premium craft cannabis from local growers by visiting our store in Historic Downtown Rutland!
