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San Francisco, CA Cannabis Regulations: Home Cultivation (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Plant Limit
6 plants per residence
Age Requirement
21+ years old
Visibility
Must not be visible from public areas
Permit
None required for personal cultivation
Landlord Rights
May prohibit in rental units

Summary

Under California Proposition 64 and San Francisco Police Code Article 16, adults 21+ may cultivate up to 6 cannabis plants per residence for personal use. Plants must be grown indoors or in a secure, enclosed area not visible from a public place.

11362.2. (a) Personal cultivation of cannabis under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 11362.1 is subject to the following restrictions: (1) A person shall plant, cultivate, harvest, dry, or process plants in accordance with local ordinances, if any... (2) The living plants and any cannabis produced by the plants in excess of 28.5 grams are kept within the person's private residence, or upon the grounds of that private residence, are in a locked space, and are not visible by normal unaided vision from a public place. (3) Not more than six living plants may be planted, cultivated, harvested, dried, or processed within a single private residence, or upon the grounds of that private residence, at one time.

Source: SF Police Code Article 16 - Cannabis RegulationView official code

Full Breakdown

Home cultivation does not require a city permit. All 6 plants must be within a private residence or on the grounds of a private residence in a locked space. Plants must not be visible from public right-of-way. Landlords may prohibit cultivation in rental properties. Extraction using volatile solvents is prohibited. Local HOA/CC&R restrictions may also apply. The 6-plant limit is per residence, not per person.

Violations & Fines

Exceeding the 6-plant limit may result in criminal charges. Outdoor cultivation visible from public areas can result in code enforcement action. Using volatile solvents for extraction is a criminal offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cannabis plants can I grow at home?
Adults 21 and over may grow up to 6 cannabis plants per residence. The limit is per household, not per person.
Can my landlord prohibit cannabis cultivation?
Yes, landlords may prohibit cannabis cultivation in rental properties through lease terms, even though it is legal under state and local law.

Sources & Official References

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