Colorado Marijuana Record Sealing Attorneys
Reviewed: May 15, 2026
Colorado legalized adult recreational marijuana in 2012 (Amendment 64). SB 21-109 (2021) and HB 22-1214 (2022) require the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to automatically identify and seal marijuana possession convictions for amounts now legal under state law — without any petition from the individual.
At a glance
- ✓ CBI automatically sealed possession-of-1-oz convictions from before November 2012
- ✓ No petition needed for automatically sealed marijuana records
- ✓ Larger amounts and sales do not qualify for automatic sealing
- ✓ Sealed records are invisible to employers and landlords
Automatic sealing under SB 21-109 and HB 22-1214
The CBI has been required to automatically seal convictions for marijuana possession of one ounce or less (and cultivation of three plants or fewer for personal use) if the offense occurred before November 2012 and the conduct would not be a crime under current law. These convictions are sealed without a petition or any action by the individual.
After sealing, the court treats the record as if it does not exist for employment and housing purposes. The sealed record is not accessible to employers or landlords but remains available to law enforcement for limited purposes.
Petition-based marijuana sealing
For marijuana convictions not automatically sealed (larger quantities, sales, or cases charged after legalization), petition-based sealing under C.R.S. § 24-72-706 may be available. Standard eligibility requirements and waiting periods apply.
Statutes cited
- SB 21-109 (Colorado automatic marijuana sealing) — SB 21-109 (2021)
Frequently asked questions
Was my marijuana possession conviction automatically sealed?
Check by requesting a personal criminal record from the CBI. If the conviction was for one ounce or less and occurred before November 2012, it should have been automatically sealed.
What about marijuana sales convictions?
Sales and distribution convictions are not covered by the automatic-sealing laws. Petition-based sealing under § 24-72-706 may still be available depending on offense classification and waiting period.
Can I get federal relief from Colorado marijuana sealing?
No. Federal law still classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. A Colorado marijuana sealing has no effect on federal law, including immigration law.
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