Is CBD Legal in Hawaii?
The legal status of CBD in Hawaii has caused confusion for residents and tourists alike. Despite the federal legalization of hemp-derived CBD in 2018, Hawaii has implemented state-specific rules that regulate CBD’s sale and use.
If you’re asking, “Is CBD legal in Hawaii?”, this guide will provide a clear, factual answer based on Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (EEAT) principles.
Current CBD Laws in Hawaii (2024)
Hemp-Derived CBD is Legal—but Regulated
Hawaii allows the sale and consumption of hemp-derived CBD products as long as they meet these criteria:
- Must be sourced from hemp, not marijuana
- Contains less than 0.3% THC
- Products must comply with FDA guidelines (no medical claims, proper labeling)
- Only certain forms of CBD are permitted (see details below)
Restrictions on CBD-Infused Food and Beverages
Despite federal trends, Hawaii prohibits the sale of CBD in food, drinks, and dietary supplements due to concerns from the FDA and the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH).
Prohibited items include:
- CBD gummies
- CBD beverages
- CBD candies or snacks
Legal Forms of CBD in Hawaii
CBD is allowed in topical and cosmetic products, such as:
- CBD creams and lotions
- CBD oils for skin application
- CBD salves and balms
Inhalable products (like CBD vapes or hemp pre-rolls) are also permitted, but must follow state packaging and safety regulations.
Can You Buy CBD in Hawaii?
Yes, you can buy CBD products legally in Hawaii, but they must be:
- Hemp-derived (under 0.3% THC)
- Third-party tested for purity and THC levels
- Sold as topicals, tinctures (non-food), or inhalable products
Where to Buy Legal CBD in Hawaii:
- Licensed CBD stores and dispensaries
- Some health and wellness shops
- Online retailers that ship to Hawaii (must comply with state laws)
Traveling with CBD in Hawaii
If you’re visiting Hawaii, you can bring legal CBD products with you as long as they:
- Contain less than 0.3% THC
- Are in cosmetic or topical form
- Do not include CBD-infused edibles or beverages
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Selling or marketing illegal CBD edibles or beverages in Hawaii may result in:
- Fines
- Product seizures
- Business license suspension
Consumers are unlikely to face penalties for purchasing CBD, but it’s still important to buy from trusted, compliant sources.
Hawaii’s CBD Farming and Production Laws
Hawaii has a state hemp program under the USDA Hemp Production Plan, allowing licensed farmers to:
- Grow hemp for CBD production
- Harvest hemp crops with THC levels under 0.3%
Processors must comply with state and federal guidelines to produce CBD legally.
Is Medical Marijuana Different from CBD in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii has a medical marijuana program for qualifying patients. Medical cannabis products can contain high levels of THC, unlike hemp-derived CBD.
CBD products from licensed dispensaries may contain varying ratios of THC and CBD for medical use.
Conclusion: Is CBD Legal in Hawaii?
Summary:
CBD Product Type | Legal in Hawaii? |
---|---|
Topicals & Cosmetics | ✅ Yes |
Edibles & Drinks | ❌ No |
Vape Products | ✅ Yes (regulated) |
Pet Products | ✅ Yes (topicals only) |
Medical CBD (from dispensaries) | ✅ For patients only |
Final Thoughts
CBD is legal in Hawaii in certain forms, but the state maintains strict regulations to protect consumers. It’s crucial to:
- Buy from licensed sellers
- Choose hemp-derived CBD with third-party testing
- Avoid CBD-infused food or drinks unless laws change