What are the penalties for possessing too much cannabis in Vermont?

Possessing 1-2 ounces of flower is a civil violation with no criminal record. 2-8 ounces is a misdemeanor (up to 6 months and/or $500). 8+ ounces is a felony. Possessing 10+ pounds carries up to 15 years imprisonment and/or a $500,000 fine.

Is selling cannabis without a license illegal in Vermont?

Yes. Any unlicensed sale of cannabis is a criminal offense, regardless of quantity. This includes gift economy workarounds where cannabis is given "free" alongside a paid product or service — AG Donovan issued guidance in 2018 explicitly stating these schemes are illegal distribution.

What happens if you grow too many plants in Vermont?

Growing 1 plant over the legal limit (2 mature + 4 immature for recreational) is a civil violation with $100-$500 fines. Growing 4 or more mature plants over the limit is a felony with potential imprisonment.

Vermont Cannabis Penalties — Fines & Laws

Legal Disclaimer: This information reflects Vermont cannabis law as of April 2026 and is for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Laws and regulations change — always verify current rules with the Cannabis Control Board or a qualified attorney. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law.

Last verified: March 2026

Possession Penalties

Amount (Flower)	Classification	Maximum Penalty
Up to 1 oz	Legal (21+)	None
1–2 oz	Civil violation	Civil fine (no criminal record)
2–8 oz	Misdemeanor	6 months imprisonment and/or $500 fine
8 oz+	Felony	Significant prison time and fines
10+ lbs	Felony (enhanced)	Up to 15 years imprisonment and/or $500,000 fine

Cultivation Overage Penalties

Legal home growing is limited to 2 mature + 4 immature plants per dwelling unit (recreational) or 6 mature + 12 immature (medical). Exceeding these limits carries its own penalty structure:

Overage	Classification	Penalty
1 plant over limit	Civil violation	$100–$500 fine
2–3 plants over limit	Civil violation	Higher civil fines
4+ mature plants over limit	Felony	Criminal charges, potential imprisonment

Distribution Penalties

Distributing cannabis without a license is treated far more seriously than simple possession:

Unlicensed sale (any amount): Criminal charge with significant penalties
Distribution to a minor: Enhanced felony penalties
Distribution within 1,000 feet of a school: Additional penalties on top of base charges

Gifting vs. Distribution

Legal gifting requires zero compensation — no money, barter, services, or anything of value. Attorney General Donovan issued explicit guidance in 2018 that gift economy workarounds are illegal. Examples of what counts as unlicensed distribution, not gifting:

Selling a $60 "art piece" that comes with a "free" eighth
Charging a $40 "delivery fee" for a free gift
Accepting "donations" in exchange for cannabis
Trading cannabis for goods or services of any kind

Public Consumption Penalties

Offense	Fine
First public consumption offense	$100
Second offense	$200
Third and subsequent offenses	$500

Underage Possession (Under 21)

Persons under 21 who possess cannabis face civil penalties for small amounts. Larger quantities or distribution by minors carry more serious consequences including potential criminal charges and mandatory diversion programs.

Housing and Landlord Rules

While not a criminal penalty, it's important to know that landlords can prohibit all cannabis use, possession, and cultivation through lease terms. Violating a cannabis prohibition in your lease is grounds for eviction, even though the underlying activity is legal under state law.

Federal Land = Federal Law

Cannabis on Green Mountain National Forest land — including some ski resorts like Mount Snow and Stratton — is subject to federal penalties: up to 1 year imprisonment and $1,000+ fine for simple possession. Ski country details.