Portland has always had a reputation for being at odds with the state at large. But when it comes to cannabis legalization, it's followed the policies established by Salem, the state capital. Of course, because of the city's progressive leanings, as well as the fact that it's by far the largest city in the state, it has helped to push the issue forward, with large numbers of Portlanders voting to pass  The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act in 1998, making it possible for city residents to consume cannabis for medical purposes. This followed more than twenty years after the state originally decriminalized marijuana, in 1973.

​

In 2014, Measure 91 passed, ushering in fully legal recreational cannabis in Portland. When the new law went into effect in October 2015, it meant that all adults 21 and over were now able to possess, consume, and even grow cannabis, while making it possible for Portland businesses to cultivate, process, distribute, and sell cannabis products in a variety of forms.

As of 2021, there were 222 dispensaries located within Multnomah County, and the State of Oregon had the highest number of dispensaries per capita in the nation. No wonder cannabis businesses find Portland so highly competitive.

​

WHAT ARE THE CANNABIS ADVERTISING RULES IN PORTLAND?

Cannabis business owners are subject to marketing regulations at both the state and local level, meaning that it is essential that they stay abreast of the latest laws and policy announcements. Fortunately, Portland tends to follow the state guidelines formulated by the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission for its advertising policies. For the latest on Oregon's official cannabis advertising rules in Oregon, go here. It's imperative that you realize that these rules are constantly being revised and updated, so we recommend whenever possible that Portland cannabis companies have a full time compliance officer whose job it is to stay informed on what is and isn't allowed.

​

The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission is designated by state law to be the chief enforcers of marketing rules for cannabis, hemp, and CBD products and businesses. Some of the main rules regarding advertisements and marketing materials state that they may not:

• Contain statements that are deceptive, false, or misleading

• Contain any content that could reasonably be considered to target people under the age of 21

• Encourage the transportation of cannabis products across state lines

• Assert that cannabis is safe because it is regulated by the Commission or has been tested by a certified laboratory 

• Make claims that recreational cannabis has curative or therapeutic effects

• Display consumption of cannabis items

• Encourage the use of cannabis because of its intoxicating effect

• Encourage excessive or rapid consumption

​

This is just a brief outline of Portland's marketing rules. Our recommendation: when in doubt, move cautiously when it comes to how you brand, advertise, and depict your cannabis products and/or services in the Portland market. And just because you see another company doing something doesn't mean it's legal.