Yes, THCA is legal in Ohio under specific conditions. As of 2024, Ohio permits hemp-derived THCA products containing ≤0.3% delta-9 THC, aligning with the 2018 Farm Bill and Ohio’s SB 57. The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) oversees compliance, but local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions, particularly near schools or parks. Retailers must verify THCA’s non-psychoactive status at the time of sale, as conversion to THC during storage or consumption could trigger penalties.
Key Regulations for THCA in Ohio
- Hemp-Derived Compliance: THCA products must derive from federally compliant hemp (≤0.3% delta-9 THC) and be tested by ODA-approved labs. Non-compliant products risk seizure under Ohio Revised Code §928.01.
- Labeling and Testing: Retailers must display THCA content and a QR code linking to ODA-approved lab results. Failure to provide this documentation constitutes a Class 2 misdemeanor.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Cincinnati and Columbus have banned THCA sales within 500 feet of schools or daycare centers, per municipal codes enacted in 2023. Violations may result in fines up to $1,000.
Enforcement Trends: The ODA’s 2026 compliance shift prioritizes post-market surveillance, with unannounced inspections targeting THCA products lacking proper THC stability testing. Businesses should maintain batch-level documentation to avoid administrative actions.