Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do home cultivation rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Under the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (410 ILCS 705), only registered medical cannabis patients may cultivate cannabis at home in Des Plaines, limited to 5 plants in an enclosed, locked space out of public view. Recreational home cultivation by adults is not permitted in Illinois.
View full Des Plaines 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 | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Home Grow | Prohibited | - |
| Medical Patient Limit | 5 plants | - |
| Location | Enclosed, locked | - |
| Visibility | Not from public | - |
| Authority | Illinois CRTA | - |
| Recreational Growing | - | Illegal — $200 civil fine |
| 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.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I grow cannabis at home in Des Plaines?
Only if you are a registered medical cannabis patient. Illinois law permits up to 5 plants in an enclosed, locked space for registered patients only. Recreational adult home grow is not allowed.
Can my landlord prohibit cannabis use?
Yes. Illinois law allows landlords to prohibit cannabis cultivation, smoking, and even possession in rental properties. Check your lease before consuming cannabis in a rental.
What are the penalties for unauthorized growing?
Penalties under Illinois law range from civil fines for very small amounts to felony charges for cultivating more than 5 plants by a non-patient. Local police enforce alongside state authorities.
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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