Illinois legalized adult-use cannabis in 2020 but permits home cultivation only for medical cannabis patients. Local precincts in Chicago can further restrict home cultivation through Restricted Cannabis Zones under MCC provisions.
Under the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (410 ILCS 705), recreational home cultivation is prohibited for non-medical patients. Medical cannabis patients with a valid registration card may grow up to 5 plants at their primary residence. Cultivation must occur on residential property lawfully possessed by the cultivator or with the property owner's consent. Plants must not be visible from public areas. Chicago allows individual precincts to establish Restricted Cannabis Zones through voter petition, which can ban home cultivation in that precinct. Landlords may prohibit cultivation in lease agreements. Violations of cultivation limits are subject to civil fines.
Unauthorized home cultivation (recreational) is a civil violation with fines up to $200 for 5 or fewer plants. Growing more than 5 plants (medical) is a criminal offense. Cultivation in a Restricted Cannabis Zone carries additional local penalties.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle home cultivation.
See how Chicago's home cultivation rules stack up against other locations.
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