Now that cannabis is legal for all adults in New Jersey, where and how should you shop? The first thing to know is the difference between recreational dispensaries like Boone Town and medical dispensaries that serve qualified, cardholding patients, even those under 21. Understand the benefits, similarities, and differences before you take your trip to Boone Town.
What’s the difference between medical and recreational cannabis in New Jersey?
New Jersey has two main types of dispensaries: medical and recreational. While they share similarities in offering high-quality cannabis products, there are distinct differences between the two in terms of access requirements, product offerings, legality, shopping requirements, and more.
Similarities between medical and recreational cannabis in New Jersey
Some of the common similarities between medical and recreational cannabis in New Jersey include:
- High-quality products: Whether medical or recreational, all cannabis products in New Jersey must undergo rigorous testing and are highly regulated to ensure product potency and consumer transparency.
- Product range: Both medical patients and recreational customers in New Jersey can find most cannabis products, including flower, edibles, concentrates, and topicals, in either dispensary type.
- Emphasis on education: Both medical and recreational dispensaries provide information on dosing, consumption methods, how to use each product type, and more.
Differences between medical and recreational cannabis in New Jersey
Some of the major differences between medical and recreational cannabis in New Jersey include:
- Access requirements: You must have a medical card issued by the state to purchase medical cannabis in New Jersey. A government-issued ID is all that is required for recreational purchases. Additionally, minors with a qualifying condition may purchase medical cannabis through a caregiver. Under no circumstances can a recreational dispensary sell cannabis to someone younger than 21.
- Product types: While medical and recreational dispensaries share many of the same products, some items are more likely to be carried in a medical dispensary. For example, Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) or high-CBD flower may be more common in medical dispensaries.
- Tax considerations: Medical cannabis transactions in New Jersey are exempt from state sales tax. Recreational cannabis sales are subject to state and local sales tax.
- Purchase limits: Medical patients have higher limits — and in some cases, no limit — compared to recreational customers.
Recreational dispensaries in New Jersey: what you need to know
At a recreational dispensary, any adult aged 21 and older can legally purchase cannabis products for personal consumption. Anyone entering a recreational dispensary like Boone Town must present a valid government-issued ID proving they are of legal age. Valid forms of ID typically include driver’s licenses, passports, or state-issued ID cards such as non-driver ID. Once age verification is complete, recreational shoppers can explore their options and place orders.
Beyond just transactions, recreational dispensaries like Boone Town foster a sense of camaraderie among shoppers and in the community. Recreational shops are a great atmosphere for all to explore and enjoy, whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned vet.
Medical dispensaries in New Jersey: what you need to know
Medical dispensaries in New Jersey are specialized establishments where patients with qualifying medical cards can legally obtain cannabis products for therapeutic consumption.
Medical cannabis has been legal in New Jersey since 2010; however, legislative changes and Jake’s Law, signed in 2019, significantly expanded access. Signed in honor of Jake Honig, a young boy and medical cannabis patient who lost his battle with cancer in 2018, Jake’s Law increased the monthly limit on medical cannabis purchases, authorized home delivery of products, and streamlined the process for patients to obtain medical cannabis cards.
Still, accessing medical cannabis in NJ involves several steps. First, patients must consult with a registered healthcare practitioner who can certify their eligibility for the state’s medical cannabis program. Once approved, patients must register with the NJ Medicinal Cannabis Program (MCP) and obtain a medical cannabis card issued by the state. This card grants patients access to purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries within New Jersey.
FAQs about medical vs. recreational dispensaries
Is adult use the same as recreational?
Yes, adult-use and recreational cannabis both refer to the same concept: the legal consumption and purchase of cannabis products by adults aged 21 and older.
Do you need a medical card at recreational dispensaries?
You don’t need a medical card to shop at recreational dispensaries. Recreational dispensaries in New Jersey only require a valid government-issued ID proving the customer is of legal age (21+). However, some recreational dispensaries may give discounts to medical patients.
How many dispensaries are in New Jersey?
There are 125 dispensaries operating in New Jersey as of April 2024, including medical and recreational locations. The number of dispensaries will continue to grow. Click here for an up-to-date list.
Can medical patients shop at recreational dispensaries in NJ?
Yes, medical patients in New Jersey can shop at recreational dispensaries. Anyone aged 21+ with a valid ID can shop at recreational dispensaries in NJ.
Making informed choices: medical vs. recreational dispensaries
While there are certainly advantages to joining the medical cannabis program, not everyone meets the criteria to obtain a card. That makes access to an adult-use dispensary easier, first and foremost.
Opting for medical dispensaries may be preferable if you’re managing specific conditions and require personalized care. On the other hand, recreational cannabis provides a convenient and accessible option for adults looking to enjoy cannabis, however, that looks to them. With no need for medical documentation, recreational dispensaries like Boone Town offer a straightforward experience whether you prioritize focused relief or the convenience of easy shopping. Ultimately, however, your choice should reflect what best aligns with your needs and enhances your cannabis journey.
Discover the best place to shop in NJ
At Boone Town Provisions, we pride ourselves on being the premier destination for recreational cannabis enthusiasts in northern New Jersey. With our wide selection of high-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer a top-notch shopping experience no matter your needs. We’re open — we can’t wait to greet you, patient and recreational shoppers alike.
