The legal landscape around cannabis in North Carolina continues to draw confusion and attention. While many states have moved toward full legalization, North Carolina still prohibits marijuana for recreational and most medical use—and that reality hasn’t changed. However, 2025–2026 developments have highlighted uncertainties worth knowing if you live in Hickory, Catawba County, Burke, or Caldwell County. NCLocal
If you’re carrying cannabis products—or think you might be—this guide will help you separate current law from possible changes ahead and understand the risks in a state where enforcement can still be strict even when products appear legal.
Check out our previous blog on “Legal vs Illegal Cannabis in NC”.
What the Law Currently Says (2025–2026)
Marijuana Is Still Illegal Across Most of NC
Under North Carolina law, any cannabis with more than 0.3 % Delta-9 THC remains illegal for recreational or medical use. That includes traditional marijuana products and homemade cannabis.
Possession Penalties Remain Harsh Depending on Quantity
Possessing small amounts can still be charged as a misdemeanor, while larger amounts carry felony penalties. Even possession of hemp products can lead to arrests if police cannot distinguish them without testing.
Hemp and CBD Products Are Legal—but Not Clear-Cut
Products derived from industrial hemp (with under 0.3 % THC) and CBD remain technically legal. However, law enforcement commonly can’t tell the difference from illegal products in the field without labs—leading to arrests that may be dropped later.
Recent Legislative and Policy Developments
Advisory Council on Cannabis Policy
In 2025, North Carolina established a State Advisory Council on Cannabis tasked with recommending how to regulate THC products, including adult-use marijuana. The council’s goal is to deliver recommendations by the end of 2026. AP News
This does not mean cannabis is legal yet—but it indicates that lawmakers are actively studying regulated markets and consumer protections—a major step in policy discussions.
Proposed Bills and Regulation Efforts
Legislators have introduced bills seeking to regulate cannabis like alcohol or tighten controls on psychoactive hemp products such as delta-8 THC. These proposals reflect growing pressure to bring clarity—but none have passed into law as of late 2025. North Carolina General Assembly+1
What This Means If You’re in Hickory or Western NC
1. You Still Face Criminal Penalties for Marijuana
Marijuana possession and cultivation remain illegal outside tribal lands, and being charged can affect your record, employment, driving privileges, and more. NCLocal
2. Law Enforcement Can Still Arrest You Over Hemp-Like Products
Even if a product looks legal, officers may make an arrest and hold it for testing—leaving you to sort out legal defenses afterward.
3. Federal and State Laws May Diverge
Federal law still classifies cannabis as illegal, and until North Carolina’s legislature acts, state law remains restrictive, so local prosecutors in Catawba County and nearby areas continue to enforce strict standards. FindLaw
4. Regulatory Changes Could Come—but Not Instantly
While the advisory council and bills signal interest in reform, actual legalization or regulated sales (like dispensaries) would require significant legislative action. Nothing binding has passed yet.
What You Can Do
If you’re stopped or charged with a cannabis-related offense—or are unsure if a product you possess is legal—seek competent legal advice right away. Handling a cannabis matter proactively in Hickory or the surrounding region can make a significant difference in outcomes.
Contact King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law
Whether you have questions about North Carolina cannabis laws or are facing a drug possession or distribution charge, King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law can help.
📍 Serving Hickory, NC and surrounding communities
📞 Phone: 828-466-3858
📧 Email: kingrowelaw@gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.kingrowelaw.com
