Massachusetts Drug Cultivation and Distribution Laws

By Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed June 06, 2025

Massachusetts takes a stringent approach to drug cultivation and distribution. The penalties for these crimes range from months to decades of prison sentences and fines. This article contains an overview of Massachusetts drug laws related to drug cultivation and distribution.

Drug Distribution in Massachusetts

One of the most common drug-related charges is drug possession. Most laws, however, provide harsher penalties once the person intends to distribute the substances they have. The statute prohibits any individual from knowingly and intentionally manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing a controlled substance.

"Distribution" is a term that refers to the process of transferring drugs from one party to another. Massachusetts' drug distribution laws cover a range of drug transactions and include grand-scale examples of drug trafficking as well as lower-profile street dealing.

Classification of Controlled Substances in Massachusetts

Massachusetts classifies controlled substances by schedules. The drug law classifies these controlled substances based on their risk for abuse and medical use. Some examples of substances that fall under each class are as follows:

Class A Substances

Heroin
Ketamine
Fentanyl and its derivatives

Class B Substances

Methamphetamine
Amphetamine
MDMA (Ecstasy)
Cocaine
Methadone
LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide)

Class C Substances

Lorazepam
Diazepam
Psilocybin
Mescaline
THC

Class D Substances

Meprobamate
Marijuana (Cannabis)

Class E Substances

Medications with low doses of codeine
Medications with low doses of opium

How Massachusetts classifies drugs doesn't always match how drugs are scheduled under federal law. While both medical and recreational use of marijuana is legal under Massachusetts law, it carries a much harsher schedule in the federal classification. If you're caught with marijuana in a federal park or building, Massachusetts law won't shield you.

Overview of Drug Cultivation and Distribution Laws

The following are relevant laws related to drug cultivation and distribution laws in Massachusetts under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 94C:

Section 32 (Class A)
Section 32A (Class B)
Section 32B (Class C)
Section 32C (Class D)
Section 32D (Class E)
Section 32E (Marijuana Trafficking)
Section 32F (Distribution to Minors)

Penalties for Drug Distribution or Possession With Intent To Distribute

Massachusetts drug laws impose severe penalties for drug trafficking and drug possession with intent to distribute. These penalties often vary according to the classification of the controlled substance.

The following reflects the penalties for each Massachusetts drug classification:

Class A

10 years incarceration
$10,000 fine

Class B

10 years' incarceration
$10,000 fine
Mandatory minimum sentence of one year imprisonment with cocaine/crack or methamphetamines

Class C

Five years' incarceration
$5,000 fine

Class D

Two years in jail
Maximum $5,000 fine

Class E

Nine months in jail
Maximum $2,5000 fine

Cultivation of Marijuana in Massachusetts

Although marijuana is legal in Massachusetts, the law still has some restrictions, including authorized cultivation. Non-participants in the state's medical cannabis program can legally grow up to six plants. They can also own up to one ounce and/or up to 5 grams of concentrate and up to 10 ounces of marijuana flower in the home for personal use.

Aggravating Circumstances

Several aggravating factors could enhance drug charges in Massachusetts. The presence of these circumstances can lead to a longer prison sentence and higher fines:

Commission of the offense within 300 feet of a school zone
Commission of the offense within 100 feet of a public park or playground
Possession of firearms or other weapons
The use of threats or violence
Involvement of minors in the commission of the offense

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research on Massachusetts law(s).