Every year, thousands of snowbirds—seasonal residents who escape colder climates for Florida’s sunshine—flock to cities like Fort Myers to enjoy the warm weather, beaches, and relaxing lifestyle. But for those managing chronic conditions, access to medical cannabis while away from home is an important concern. Fortunately, Florida law provides a clear path for eligible seasonal residents to obtain a medical marijuana card and access dispensary products during their stay. Here’s everything snowbirds need to know about ordering medical cannabis in Fort Myers.
Understanding Seasonal Residency in Florida
Florida law defines a “seasonal resident” as someone who:
- Resides in Florida for at least 31 consecutive days each calendar year.
- Maintains a temporary residence in the state.
- Returns to their home state at least once annually.
- Is registered to vote or pays income tax in another state.
To prove seasonal residency, applicants must provide two of the following documents showing a Florida address:
- Utility bills
- Lease or mortgage agreements
- Mail from financial institutions or government agencies
These documents must be dated within the last 60 days.
Qualifying for Medical Marijuana
To be eligible for medical cannabis in Florida, you must:
- Have a qualifying medical condition
Conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, ALS, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, chronic nonmalignant pain, and terminal conditions diagnosed by another physician. - Consult a certified physician
Schedule an in-person appointment with a Florida-licensed medical marijuana doctor. During the evaluation, the doctor will assess your medical history and determine if medical cannabis is appropriate for your condition. - Register with the Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR)
If approved, the physician will enter your information into the MMUR. You’ll then receive an email with instructions to complete your application and pay the $75 state fee. - Obtain your Medical Marijuana Use Registry Identification Card
Once your application is processed and approved, you’ll receive your card, allowing you to purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries in Florida.
Accessing Dispensaries in Fort Myers
Fort Myers hosts several licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) where qualified patients can purchase medical cannabis products. Notable dispensaries include:
- Curaleaf
- Trulieve
- Surterra Wellness
- Liberty Health Sciences
These dispensaries offer a wide selection of products such as oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and smokable flower, tailored to meet varying medical needs.
Important Considerations
- Florida does not recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards
Even if you’re registered in another state, you must obtain a Florida medical marijuana card to purchase cannabis within the state. - Telehealth for renewals
As of July 1, 2023, existing patients can renew their medical marijuana certifications via telehealth appointments. However, the initial consultation must be in person. - Travel restrictions
It is illegal to transport medical cannabis across state lines, even if you’re returning to a state where it’s legal. Plan your purchases accordingly to avoid legal complications.
Summary
For snowbirds residing in Fort Myers, accessing medical cannabis is a feasible process, provided you meet the state’s residency and medical requirements. By following the outlined steps and consulting with certified professionals, you can legally obtain and use medical cannabis during your stay in Florida.
Related Read: Florida Cannabis Delivery Laws Explained