Quick answer
Marijuana in Colorado: Recreational + medical legal. Colorado was the first state to legalize adult-use marijuana in 2012, with retail sales starting in 2014. Adults 21 and older may possess up to one ounce in public (two ounces at home) and grow up to six plants. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test employees.
Key facts
- Recreational marijuana legal since 2012.
- Medical marijuana legal since 2000.
- Adults may typically possess up to 1 oz.
- Home cultivation permitted.
Workplace testing
Colorado permits workplace drug testing and employers may act on positive results, particularly for safety-sensitive positions. State legalization does not override an employer's drug-free workplace policy, and a medical card does not guarantee protection.
Colorado's lawful-off-duty-activities statute protects employees from discipline for lawful off-duty conduct, but courts have generally allowed employers to enforce drug policies and test for cannabis.
Detection & panels
See how long substances stay detectable in our detection chart, compare standard panels, or use the test finder. Local testing locations in Colorado are listed on the Colorado drug testing page.
Frequently asked questions
Is marijuana legal in Colorado?
Colorado status: Recreational + medical legal. Colorado was the first state to legalize adult-use marijuana in 2012, with retail sales starting in 2014. Adults 21 and older may possess up to one ounce in public (two ounces at home) and grow up to six plants. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test employees.
Can an employer in Colorado drug test me?
Colorado permits workplace drug testing and employers may act on positive results, particularly for safety-sensitive positions. State legalization does not override an employer's drug-free workplace policy, and a medical card does not guarantee protection.
Does a medical card protect me from testing in Colorado?
Colorado's lawful-off-duty-activities statute protects employees from discipline for lawful off-duty conduct, but courts have generally allowed employers to enforce drug policies and test for cannabis.