Ventura County is located in California’s southern section. It is situated right on the Pacific coast of California and part of the county comprises the Greater Los Angeles Area. A fairly affluent community, Ventura County has a population of approximately 823,318 as estimated during the 2010 census. The seat of the county is Ventura, which is also known as San Buenaventura.
Marijuana Laws in Ventura County
Ventura County is governed by the same marijuana laws that apply to most other counties in California. Under these laws, the possession of marijuana in small amounts is a non criminal offense, which merits only a civil infraction and a $100 fine. However, offenders found in possession of marijuana in amounts exceeding 28.5 grams face a possible 6-month jail sentence and a fine of $500.
Under California’s marijuana laws, certain individuals may cultivate and process marijuana in Ventura County, although there are limits with regard to the amount. Patients that have been prescribed medical marijuana by a doctor will first have to secure a state-issued marijuana ID card. This card provides the bearer with prosecution against the possession of marijuana in amounts of up to 6 mature plants or 12 immature plants and 8 ounces of bud. Caregivers of medical marijuana patients are also allowed to maintain the same number of plants and the same amount of buds. All other individuals who cultivate and process marijuana do so illegally, and they may face a 16-month stay in prison.
The sale of marijuana is illegal under California law, which makes it illegal in Ventura County as well. In fact, the sale of marijuana is considered a felony offense for which the offender may be imprisoned for 2 to 4 years. For cases involving the sale of marijuana to a minor, the offender faces a possible prison term of 3 to 5 years.