Now that cannabis is legal for all adults in New Jersey, where and how should you shop? The first thing to know is to understand 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?
In New Jersey, medical cannabis and recreational cannabis dispensaries are the two types of dispensaries. While they share similarities in offering high-quality cannabis products, there are distinct differences between the two in terms of access requirements, product offerings, pertinent state laws, shopping requirements, and more.
Who can shop
You must have a medical card issued by the state to purchase medical cannabis in New Jersey. A government-issued ID such as a valid, unexpired driver’s license or passport, is all that is required for recreational purchases.
Additionally, minors with a qualifying condition may purchase medical cannabis through a caregiver. Under no circumstances, however, can a recreational dispensary sell cannabis to someone younger than 21.
Legal differences
In New Jersey, the health conditions for which medical cannabis is approved for recommendation include cancer, migraines, multiple sclerosis, and a dozen or so others. Only New Jersey residents can be approved for participation in the state’s medical cannabis program. By comparison, anyone from any state or country who’s 21 or older, and can provide their age with government-issued ID, can buy recreational cannabis in New Jersey.
Purchase limits
Medical patients have higher purchase limits — and sometimes, no limit — than recreational customers. Those using cannabis for medical conditions such as chronic pain can be prescribed up to 84 grams of cannabis every 30 days.
Recreational shoppers can buy up to 28.35 grams or 1 ounce of usable cannabis per visit to a licensed dispensary. This may look like:
- 1 ounce or 28.35 grams of flower, or
- 4 grams of solid cannabis concentrates or resin, or the equivalent of this weight in liquid-form concentrate (solution in milliliters), or
- 4 grams of vape oil, or
- 1,000 mg of edibles such as gummies, or
- A combination of the above that totals at most 1 ounce or 28.35 grams of usable cannabis.
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. The standard state sales tax for New Jersey is currently 6.625%, and local sales tax rates specific to cannabis may be up to 2%. In some cases, the total tax rate may thus be 8.825%.
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.
Many products sold at medical dispensaries are intended specifically for medical use. The potency levels of products may differ between medical and recreational dispensaries, too.
Shopping experience
Shopping at medical and recreational dispensaries is mostly the same experience, with one exception. At dispensaries that offer both recreational and medical cannabis, there may be parking spots, special hours, dedicated lines, or some combination of these features reserved for medical customers. Otherwise, expect a similar experience at medical and recreational dispensaries: knowledgeable staff, product displays, and no products within reach until checkout.
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. 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.
Similarities between medical and recreational cannabis in New Jersey
Despite all the differences between dispensaries for recreational purposes and medical purposes, the two share some similarities. 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. This testing is how cannabis brands determine the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoid and terpene levels displayed on their products’ packaging.
- 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. This information is equally important for medical cannabis patients and those using cannabis for recreational purposes.
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?
190 licensed dispensaries are operating in New Jersey as of December 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 if they are 21 years of age or older. Anyone aged 21+ with a valid ID, including out-of-state visitors, can shop at recreational dispensaries in NJ.
Why do some states have both medical and recreational cannabis programs?
Some states have both medical and recreational cannabis programs since medical programs are almost always created first. This was the case in New Jersey, where medical cannabis was signed into law in 2010.
Additionally, cannabis products for medical conditions may differ in dosage, available strains, product form, and cannabinoid content. Those using cannabis for medical purposes may require more to help ease the symptoms and side effects of their conditions.
Is medical and recreational weed the same?
The cannabis plants from which medical and recreational products are derived often do not differ. However, medical cannabis products may vary from recreational products in terms of their cannabinoid content. So, although both types of cannabis are technically the same, the experience that each provides may differ.
What is the legal status of cannabis?
In New Jersey, both medical and recreational cannabis are legal. However, at the federal level, cannabis technically remains illegal.
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 at an adult-use dispensary easier, first and foremost.
Opting for medical dispensaries may be preferable if you’re managing specific conditions and you 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 knowledgeable staff, a wide selection of high-quality products, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer a top-notch shopping experience no matter your needs. We can’t wait to greet you, patient and recreational shoppers alike.
