Psilocybin legal status in California: laws, decrim & 2026 update
Decriminalized
Current psilocybin laws and regulations in California
Current Legal Status
Quick answer
Psilocybin legal status in California: California has not legalized psilocybin at the state level, but several cities have decriminalized entheogenic plants and fungi. Oakland became the first city in the U.S. to decriminalize psilocybin in 2019, followed by Santa Cruz and San Francisco. State-level legislation (SB 519) to decriminalize psychedelics has been introduced multiple times but has not yet passed. The state remains a leader in psychedelic reform efforts, with numerous advocacy organizations and a growing network of integration practitioners.
California has not legalized psilocybin at the state level, but several cities have decriminalized entheogenic plants and fungi. Oakland became the first city in the U.S. to decriminalize psilocybin in 2019, followed by Santa Cruz and San Francisco. State-level legislation (SB 519) to decriminalize psychedelics has been introduced multiple times but has not yet passed. The state remains a leader in psychedelic reform efforts, with numerous advocacy organizations and a growing network of integration practitioners.
Timeline of Key Events
June 2019
Oakland Decriminalizes
Oakland becomes the first U.S. city to decriminalize psilocybin and other entheogenic plants.
January 2020
Santa Cruz Follows
Santa Cruz City Council votes to decriminalize natural psychedelics.
February 2021
SB 519 Introduced
State Senator Scott Wiener introduces bill to decriminalize psychedelics statewide.
September 2022
San Francisco Deprioritizes
San Francisco Board of Supervisors makes entheogenic plants lowest law enforcement priority.
October 2023
Governor Vetoes SB 58
Governor Newsom vetoes psychedelic decriminalization bill, citing need for more regulation.
Get notified when laws change in California. We'll send you updates on new legislation, decriminalization efforts, and important legal developments.
Legal disclaimer
While certain cities in California have decriminalized psilocybin, it remains illegal under California state law and federal law. Decriminalization means law enforcement deprioritizes enforcement, but possession, sale, and distribution can still result in criminal charges. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.