Delaware embraces cannabis legalization, as retail sales commence on August 1st
Delaware Kicks Off Recreational Marijuana Sales
After a long wait, Delaware officially launched its recreational marijuana retail sales on August 1, 2025. Twelve existing medical marijuana dispensaries, including Thrive Cannabis Dispensary in Lewes and First State Compassion in Wilmington, have converted to sell adult-use cannabis. This marks the beginning of recreational sales in the state, following legalization in April 2023.
Beyond these initial 12 conversion dispensaries, 30 additional licensed retailers are working towards opening new standalone recreational outlets statewide. These licensees are expected to receive all conditional licenses by Labor Day 2025, after which they will have an 18-month window to start their businesses.
The initial purchase limit for recreational marijuana is one ounce (28.35 grams) of buds or "leaf" marijuana, with a 15% sales tax applied to recreational purchases. Consumers cannot possess over one ounce at a time, and public consumption or interstate transport remains illegal.
Customers can choose from various forms of marijuana products, such as buds, gummies and other edibles, vapes, capsules, and tinctures. However, some products will be exclusive to medical patients due to their strength.
Jennifer Stark, CEO of The Farm, expressed her excitement and relief at starting retail sales. Brobyn, the owner of a marijuana business, also stated that they have enough inventory to cater to both medical and recreational customers.
However, not everyone is happy about the high tax rate compared to nearby states. Zoë Patchell, a longtime marijuana advocate, is urging a boycott until retail-only licensees open. She, along with other advocates, have expressed concerns about the six businesses that have started sales, which they believe have lobbied for less competition and unfair competitive advantages.
As of now, recreational marijuana retail is available at a dozen converted medical dispensaries, with more new retail shops planned but not yet open, with a timeline extending into 2026 and beyond. The locations that can open for adult-use sales starting Friday are Best Buds (CannTech), Columbia Care Delaware, The Farm, First State Compassion, Fresh Delaware, Field Supply (in New Castle County), Best Buds (CannTech), Columbia Care Delaware, The Farm, and Sussex County locations include Best Buds (CannTech), Columbia Care Delaware, First State Compassion, and The Farm.
It's important to note that buyers can make multiple purchases to buy more than one ounce, but they must give away any amount above an ounce. Nor can they take the weed they buy across state lines, and they cannot get high in public or while driving.
This landmark launch of the legal retail marketplace culminates a years-long effort that led lawmakers to legalize possession of up to an ounce of weed in April 2023. With more retail shops expected to open in the coming months, Delaware's recreational marijuana market is set for expansion.
- Given the recent launch of recreational marijuana sales in Delaware, it's possible to imagine a lively sports event after work, where participants might enjoy their newly obtained legal cannabis responsibly.
- Despite the controversy surrounding the high tax rate and competition in Delaware's recreational marijuana market, one can still find various marijuana products for consumption, such as gummies and vapes, adding a new dimension to sports' post-match celebrations.
