Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Pennsylvania law
Cannabis laws in Scranton follow Pennsylvania’s state law. Local variations are uncommon—jurisdiction law sets the baseline for legality and penalties.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical cannabis is legal for registered patients with qualifying conditions through licensed dispensaries. Unregistered possession can result in legal penalties.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Legal
- Possession: Legal for registered patients only
- Buying/Selling: Legal for medical patients
- Tourists: Subject to the same laws as residents
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
Pennsylvania legalized medical cannabis in 2016 through Act 16, creating one of the nation's more comprehensive programs with licensed dispensaries, a wide range of qualifying conditions (including chronic pain and PTSD), and allowances for various product forms. Recreational use remains illegal, with unregistered possession treated as a misdemeanor or felony depending on amount.
Law Enforcement
Scranton cops had a reputation for picking people up for very little. A bust was said to mean central booking and a hold of up to 48 hours.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Weekend nights near the university, basketball courts and downtown mall brought people out. One undercover officer cut off a conversation before weed came up, saying it was interfering with ‘ongoing drug surveillance.’ Mulberry Street parties on Friday and Saturday were known for weed and free beer or liquor.
Marijuana Prices
- US$10–30 per gram
- US$50–70 per ½ oz
- US$90–300 per oz
- It depended on who was selling and what they had.
Types of Marijuana
Schwag, Downtown Brown, mids, AZ, Haze and dro. What was around changed with the season and seller.
More Information
The Southside and Westside were getting more patrols. Downtown, the Eastside and North felt quieter in that respect, though the north side also had a reputation for some lousy flower.