Are 7-OH & Kratom Legal in California?

Are 7-OH & Kratom Legal in California?

Updated August 19, 2025 • Educational information only (not legal advice)

TL;DR – Key Takeaways

  • As of August 2025, 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) is legal at the state level in California.
  • Local bans exist: San Diego and Oceanside prohibit kratom products, including 7-OH.
  • Past legislation: In 2016, AB-2367 attempted a statewide ban; it did not pass.
  • No KCPA: California has not adopted the Kratom Consumer Protection Act; nearby Nevada and Arizona have.
  • Future risk: Lawmakers could pursue regulation (KCPA) or renewed bans. Monitor updates.
  • Buy responsibly: Outside restricted areas, shop lab-tested products with clear labels and COAs.

Introduction

7-hydroxymitragynine, often shortened to 7-OH, is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in kratom leaves in small amounts. Many shoppers look for clarity on whether they can buy or carry 7-OH products in California. This guide explains California’s current 7-OH legal status as of August 2025, local restrictions, the legislative history, and how to buy responsibly.

Current Legal Status in California

At the statewide level, as of August 2025, 7-OH and kratom are legal in California. There are no state restrictions on buying or selling kratom products that contain 7-hydroxymitragynine.

However, California does not currently regulate kratom statewide. That means no uniform age limits, labeling rules, or testing requirements at the state level.

Local Restrictions in California

California allows local governments to set their own rules. As of August 2025:

  • San Diego – bans the sale and possession of kratom products (includes 7-OH).
  • Oceanside – prohibits kratom product sales.

Tip: Always check your city or county ordinances before purchasing or traveling with 7-OH products.

State Laws on Kratom & 7-OH

  • No KCPA statewide: California has not adopted the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA).
  • No uniform age limits or labeling rules: Policies can vary by locality.

Legislative History & Attempts

  • 2016 – AB-2367: Proposed to add kratom alkaloids (including 7-OH) to the controlled substances list; did not pass.
  • 2017–2023: Local bans enacted in some cities (e.g., San Diego, Oceanside).
  • 2024: Discussion around adopting a KCPA-style framework; no statewide law enacted.
  • 2025: No active statewide bill at publication; future action remains possible.

Buying 7-OH in California

Outside restricted cities, you can buy 7-OH from local specialty shops or reputable online retailers that ship to California. When shopping, look for:

  • Third-party lab results (COAs): Verify identity and content.
  • Clear labels: Batch/lot number, total amount, ingredients, and expiration date.
  • Responsible vendors: Age verification and transparent policies.

Shipping & travel: Check state and local rules for your address and any destinations. Policies can differ across jurisdictions.

Neighboring State Laws

Compared to its neighbors, California lacks a statewide regulatory framework and relies on local ordinances.

Why Laws May Change

Kratom policy evolves as lawmakers weigh public health, product safety, and consumer protection. California could:

  1. Adopt KCPA-style regulation (testing, labeling, age limits), or
  2. Revisit ban proposals similar to past efforts like AB-2367.

Monitor updates from state and local governments to stay compliant.

FAQ: 7-OH in California

Is 7-OH legal to buy in California?

Yes. As of August 2025, it is legal at the state level. Some local bans apply (e.g., San Diego, Oceanside).

Can I travel with 7-OH in California?

Yes, if you are not entering a city or county that has banned kratom. Check local ordinances for your destination.

Does California regulate kratom products?

No statewide framework as of August 2025. California has not adopted KCPA; rules may vary locally.

Has California tried to ban kratom?

Yes. In 2016, AB-2367 sought to ban kratom alkaloids statewide but did not pass.

Could California change 7-OH laws?

Yes. Lawmakers could pursue KCPA-style regulation or renewed bans. Stay informed.

Learn More & Shop Responsibly

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always verify with official state and local sources.

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