Arlington Heights vs Evanston
How do home cultivation rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Evanston, IL?
Arlington Heights and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Home cultivation of cannabis is prohibited for recreational users in Illinois. Only registered medical cannabis patients may grow up to 5 plants at home under the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. Arlington Heights follows state law and does not impose additional local restrictions beyond the state prohibition on recreational home growing.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Home cultivation of recreational cannabis is illegal in Evanston and throughout Illinois. The Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act legalized adult-use cannabis in 2020 but explicitly prohibits home growing for recreational use. Medical cannabis patients registered with the Illinois Department of Public Health may grow up to 5 plants at home.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Growing | Prohibited in Illinois | Illegal — $200 civil fine |
| Medical Patient Limit | 5 plants, 5+ inches tall | - |
| Growing Location | Enclosed, locked space at primary residence | - |
| Registry Card | Required for medical cultivation | - |
| Landlord Restrictions | May prohibit in rental units | - |
| Medical Growing | - | Up to 5 plants with valid card |
| Plant Security | - | Enclosed, locked, not visible |
| Age Requirement | - | 21+ for medical cultivation |
| Evanston PD | - | (847) 866-5000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I grow cannabis at home in Arlington Heights?
Only if you are a registered medical cannabis patient. Illinois law prohibits recreational home cultivation. Medical patients may grow up to 5 plants in an enclosed, locked space at their primary residence.
How do I become eligible to grow medical cannabis at home?
You must be registered as a qualifying patient under the Illinois Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program. Apply through the Illinois Department of Public Health. Once approved, you may grow up to 5 plants.
Can my landlord prohibit cannabis growing?
Yes. Landlords may include provisions in lease agreements that prohibit cannabis cultivation on rental property. HOA covenants may also restrict home growing even for medical patients.
Evanston FAQ
Can I grow cannabis at home in Evanston?
Only if you are a registered medical cannabis patient with a valid Illinois Department of Public Health card. Medical patients 21 or older may grow up to 5 plants in an enclosed, locked space. Recreational home growing is prohibited.
What happens if I grow cannabis without a medical card?
Growing cannabis for recreational purposes is a civil violation with fines up to $200. Growing without a valid medical card may result in criminal charges under the Cannabis Control Act depending on the number of plants.
Can I buy recreational cannabis in Evanston?
Yes. Recreational cannabis is legal for adults 21+ to purchase from licensed dispensaries. Evanston has approved dispensary locations within city limits.
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