Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Texas law
Cannabis laws in Denton follow Texas’s state law. Local variations are uncommon—jurisdiction law sets the baseline for legality and penalties.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical use is limited to low-THC products for specific conditions. Possession remains prohibited under state law. Some hemp-derived products may be sold under separate rules, but that does not mean marijuana is legal, and legality can depend on product content and labeling.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: CBD/low-THC only
- Possession: Illegal
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Subject to state laws
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products.
Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
Texas enacted the Compassionate Use Act in 2015, establishing a low-THC medical cannabis program (initially under 0.5% THC, later expanded slightly) for patients with qualifying conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and terminal cancer through licensed dispensaries. Recreational use remains fully illegal, with possession treated as a criminal offense (misdemeanor for small amounts, escalating to felonies).
Law Enforcement
Accounts of Denton were split. Some people described smoking unnoticed on walks or taking a few hits at bars during shows. Others stuck to a private patio or backyard. City police, the sheriff and UNT police were all said to have dogs, and a small amount could still bring a bust. People also worried about harsher penalties near churches and schools, including UNT or TWU. See Marijuana Laws for the separate Texas overview.
Where to Buy Marijuana
The UNT crowd, especially art and jazz students, was said to know everything from schwag to chronic. Texas Woman’s University came up less often. Bars off the square were another route into the scene. The corner of Fry and Hickory was associated with someone selling herbal tobacco to mix with weed or other drugs.
Marijuana Prices
- Hydro: US$15–25 per gram or US$45–60 for an eighth, depending on quality
- Schwag: about US$10 for an eighth
Types of Marijuana
Northern Lights and some very good local homegrown.