{"id":372276,"date":"2018-08-30T10:08:20","date_gmt":"2018-08-30T15:08:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/dc-law\/district-of-columbia-drug-cultivation-and-distribution-laws.html"},"modified":"2024-12-20T15:09:00","modified_gmt":"2024-12-20T20:09:00","slug":"district-of-columbia-drug-cultivation-and-distribution-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/district-of-columbia-drug-cultivation-and-distribution-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"District of Columbia Drug Cultivation and Distribution Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\">\n        <h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">District of Columbia Drug Cultivation and Distribution Laws<\/h1>\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/lyle-therese-a-hilotin-lee-j-d\/\">Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/laura-temme-esq\/\">Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            December 20, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n<p>In the District of Columbia, it is illegal to knowingly:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><p>Make or sell controlled substances<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li><p>Possess a controlled substance with intent to manufacture, deliver, or sell the controlled substance<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>But, changes to the law surrounding marijuana use in D.C. make understanding the district&#8217;s drug cultivation and distribution laws more difficult. For other drugs, charges and penalties vary widely based on the type of substance and other factors.<\/p>\r\n<p>This article examines drug laws in the District of Columbia, with a focus on cultivation and distribution.<\/p>\r\n<h2><b>Definition of Manufacturing or Cultivation of Drugs<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p>Manufacturing encompasses a wide <a href=\"https:\/\/code.dccouncil.gov\/us\/dc\/council\/code\/titles\/48\/chapters\/9\/subchapters\/I#:~:text=)%20%E2%80%9CManufacture%E2%80%9D%20means,not%20for%20sale.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">range of activities<\/a> related to the processing and creation of controlled substances. This includes not only the production of drugs but also preparation and other forms of processing.<\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/dc\/division-viii-general-laws\/dc-code-sect-48-901-02.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Washington D.C. laws<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/controlled-substances-act-csa-overview.html\">Controlled Substances Act<\/a> consider both synthetic chemical processes and natural extraction methods. They also include repackaging, labeling, or relabeling of controlled substances.<\/p>\r\n<p>But, the D.C. Code does not explicitly define cultivation. It considers \u201ccultivation\u201d part of a broader concept of growing or nurturing plants classified as controlled substances.<\/p>\r\n<h2><b>Classification of Controlled Substances in the District of Columbia<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p>The District of Columbia classifies controlled substances by &quot;schedules.&quot; The schedules range on a scale of I- V.<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><p>Schedule I is the most dangerous level with a high risk of addiction.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li><p>Schedule V represents the least dangerous level with the lowest risk of abuse potential.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>There have been efforts to change the classification of marijuana as a Schedule I substance. But it remains that way even though it&#8217;s treated differently than other Schedule I substances, particularly in relation to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/medical-marijuana-an-overview.html\">medical marijuana use<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p><b>Schedule I<\/b> substances have a high risk for drug abuse and no accepted medical use. This includes drugs like LSD and heroin.<\/p>\r\n<p><b>Schedule II<\/b> controlled substances are those with a high potential for drug abuse but have accepted medical use. This includes drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine.<\/p>\r\n<p><b>Schedule III<\/b> substances are those with low risk for psychological and physical dependence. This includes drugs like anabolic steroids.<\/p>\r\n<p><b>Schedule IV<\/b> drugs are those that have a risk for drug abuse and drug dependence. It includes drugs such as Valium and Xanax.<\/p>\r\n<p><b>Schedule V<\/b> substances are those with the lowest risk for drug abuse. This includes cough preparation drugs that contain low amounts of codeine.<\/p>\r\n<h2><b>Marijuana Cultivation in the District of Columbia<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p>In D.C., growing a certain number of cannabis plants in your backyard could lead to legal consequences. These penalties exist despite the relatively relaxed marijuana laws in the district. Bu, in recent years, the district has seen a significant shift toward the legalization of the cultivation of cannabis plants.<\/p>\r\n<p>The following actions related to the use of marijuana are legal under D.C. law:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><p>Possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana or less for personal use<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li><p>Non-payment transfer of 1 oz. or less to another individual who is at least 21 years old.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li><p>Cultivation within an individual&#8217;s residence of up to 6 marijuana plants, with 3 or fewer mature, flowering plants.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The laws in the District of Columbia <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/district-of-columbia-marijuana-laws.html\">legalize the possession<\/a> of marijuana in minimal amounts and allow for limited cultivation. It is lawful to possess, grow, harvest, or process limited amounts of marijuana for personal use.<\/p>\r\n<h2><b>Penalties for Cultivation and Distribution of Controlled Substance<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/dc\/division-viii-general-laws\/dc-code-sect-48-904-01\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">criminal penalties<\/a> for violating these laws vary depending on the type and amount of drug involved. The violation can range from a misdemeanor to a felony. The table below summarizes the penalties for conviction of cultivation or distribution of different types of drugs.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<table cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"7\" border=\"1\">\r\n<tbody><tr><td><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Drug Classification&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Penalty<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><tr><td><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Schedule I or II narcotics or &quot;abusive&quot; drugs<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td><p>Up to 30 years of prison sentence, fines up to $75,000, or both<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><tr><td><p><b>All other drugs from Schedule I, II, or III<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td><p>Up to five years of imprisonment or fines of up to $12,500 or both<\/p>\r\n<p>But, for marijuana (cannabis), the penalty for manufacturing, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute half a pound or less, the penalty is imprisonment of up to 180 days or a fine outlined in Section <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/dc\/division-iv-criminal-law-and-procedure-and-prisoners\/dc-code-sect-22-3571-01\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">22-3571.01<\/a> or both.<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><tr><td height=\"3\"><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Schedule IV<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">Imprisonment of up to three years or fines of up to $12,500 or both<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><tr><td style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Schedule V<\/b><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">Imprisonment of up to one year or fines of up to $2,500 or both<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><tr><td style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Aggravating Factors<\/b><\/td>\r\n<td><p>The following circumstances enhance the penalties for these drug offenses if the offender is:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>An offender with prior convictions<\/li>\r\n<li>A person 21 years old and above distributes the substance to a minor under 18 years old<\/li>\r\n<li>Distributes or possesses controlled substances with intent to distribute within a drug-free zone. Drug-free zones include schools, libraries, daycare centers, youth centers, recreation centers, public housing, and other public spaces.<\/li>\r\n<li>A person 21 years old and above hires, enlists, contracts, or encourages a minor under 18 years of age to distribute or sell controlled substances<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\r\n<p><i>Note: State laws are subject to change. While we strive to provide the most current information and sentencing guidelines, it is best to <\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/drug-crime\/district-of-columbia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>consult an attorney<\/i><\/a><i> for help determining how these laws might apply to your unique circumstances.<\/i><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><b>Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p>Washington D.C. Code and other federal laws related to controlled substances are complex and constantly evolving. The consequences of violating these criminal offenses can be severe and could have life-altering consequences.<\/p>\r\n<p>Seeking legal advice from a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/drug-crime\/district-of-columbia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">criminal defense attorney<\/a> is crucial. They can evaluate the specifics of your case and identify possible legal defenses. They can help protect your rights and represent you in court. FindLaw offers a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/drug-crime\/district-of-columbia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">directory of criminal defense lawyers<\/a> near you. You can contact them today for a consultation about your case.<\/p>\r\n<h2><b>Related Resources<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/district-of-columbia-criminal-statute-of-limitations-laws.html\">District of Columbia Criminal Statute of Limitations Laws<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/dc-criminal-laws.html\">District of Columbia Criminal Laws<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/district-of-columbia-cocaine-laws.html\">District of Columbia Cocaine Laws<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/district-of-columbia-heroin-laws.html\">District of Columbia Heroin Laws<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                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fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                   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<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find information on drug cultivation and distribution laws in the District of Columbia (D.C.) at 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