Del Norte County

Del Norte County is located in northwestern California, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. The county shares borders with Oregon and has a population of 28,610 as estimated in the 2010 census. The largest community in the county is Crescent City, which also serves as the seat of the county. Like many parts of California, much of Del Norte County’s revenue is generated by the agricultural sector.

Del Norte County’s Marijuana Policy

Del Norte County currently does not have any clear-cut policy with regard to marijuana possession, use, and cultivation; at least not to the degree that it is implemented in most other counties. In most cases however, the California state laws apply. These laws stipulate that possession of 28.5 grams of marijuana or less is a non-arrestable offense, meriting only a $100 civil fine.  However, the penalties for possession in excess of this amount are considerably harsher. Offenders caught with more than 28.5 grams of marijuana may be sentenced to a six-month jail term and a $500 fine.

Cultivation Laws

The only individuals that may cultivate marijuana legally in Del Norte County are patients that have been prescribed medical marijuana buy a physician or the caregivers of such patients. Anyone else caught cultivating marijuana in any amount may be liable for a sixteen month prison sentence. This penalty applies to individuals caught processing marijuana as well regardless of the amount.

Marijuana Sales Laws

Sales of marijuana in Del Norte County are allowed only for legal dispensaries. All other individuals found guilty of selling marijuana in any amount will be charged with a felony offense. This offense merits a two to four year prison sentence, with offenders who sell to a minor liable for a possible three to five year prison sentence. In addition, individuals under the age of 21 who are found guilty of any of the above offenses may have their driver’s license suspended for a period of one year.