Cannabis is legal for both medicinal and recreational use in the state of California, but it’s imperative that consumers understand the limitations of the law, what to expect when they visit a dispensary like Skunkmasters and their rights and responsibilities under local and state laws.

This beginner’s guide to legal cannabis shopping in Ventura County can help you get started.

1. Learn the laws.

In Ventura County, there are a handful of dispensaries in three cities — Port Hueneme, Ojai and Thousand Oaks— that are legally permitted to sell cannabis for recreational use. However, you must be 21 years or older to possess, give, purchase or sell cannabis in the state of California.

State law allows individuals 21 and older to possess 1 ounce of cannabis or less, or up to 8 grams of cannabis concentrate.

It is against state law and local ordinances to drive under the influence or with an open container of cannabis, and it is also against the law to smoke cannabis in public (or anywhere tobacco use is banned). Though cannabis is legal, you still need to prioritize safety and responsible use.

2. Know your THC from your CBD.

The naturally occurring resin in cannabis plants contains two types of cannabinoids: tetrahydrocannabinol, called THC, and cannabidiol, referred to as CBD. Although both THC and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system, a natural and important part of the nervous system, the compounds have different effects on the body.

THC is the primary psychoactive component of the cannabis plant, but CBD lacks this response, making it appealing to those who want to treat symptoms without any mind-altering effects. CBD use has been steadily on the rise due to purported benefits for pain, inflammation, nausea and anxiety, as well as various health conditions.

3. Decide what type of product is right for you.

Most dispensaries, including Skunkmasters, stock dried cannabis flowers, concentrates, edibles, topicals and supplies, sold by the gram, eighth or ounce.

Flowers are the dried buds of the cannabis plant. Indica and sativa are the two major types of cannabis plants, and shops offer different strains, or varieties, of both.

Cannabis concentrates have a higher THC potency than flowers and are created using an extraction process that strips out plant material and isolates the THC and/or CBD while removing any residual solvents.

Edibles are products like chocolate, cookies, mints, gummies and other baked goods or candies that have been infused with cannabis extracts or concentrates.

Topicals are patches, oils, creams, lotions or other products that have been infused with cannabis extract. They are designed to be used externally and absorbed through the skin.

4. Plan ahead.

Some dispensaries require appointments, while others allow walk-ins; expect a longer wait time on weekends. Skunkmasters is open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. You must bring a valid state-issued identification card — no exceptions. Call ahead or check online to see whether your preferred dispensary accepts credit cards (most are cash only). Some also offer a delivery service within certain areas.

5. Be prepared.

Know what to expect when you arrive to feel more at ease. You will pay taxes on your cannabis purchase. In Port Hueneme, you’ll pay an 8.75% sales tax and the state’s 15% cannabis excise tax, and the 5% City Development Fee are included in the price you pay. In addition, know that all dispensaries are required to have an armed security guard present when the business is open. The knowledgeable, professional staff at Skunkmasters will be able to answer any questions you might have — and make recommendations — so don’t feel uncomfortable if you’re new to cannabis.

CBD products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. License no: C10-0000006-LIC.