Are 7-OH & Kratom Legal in Florida?
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Updated August 19, 2025 • Educational information only (not legal advice)
TL;DR – Key Takeaways
- As of August 13, 2025, 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) is illegal statewide in Florida. It was classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by emergency rule.
- Kratom leaf and powder remain legal at the state level, but regulated under the Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA).
- Local ban: Sarasota County continues to prohibit kratom entirely.
- Age limit: State law prohibits sales of kratom to anyone under 21.
- Extracts: Legal only if they don’t contain isolated or concentrated 7-OH and meet Florida labeling/quality rules.
- Buy responsibly: Verify lab reports, avoid Sarasota County, and check product labels for compliance.
Introduction
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in very small amounts in kratom leaves. In concentrated or isolated form, it has been linked to opioid-like effects. As of August 2025, Florida has drawn a sharp legal line between kratom leaf (still legal) and 7-OH isolates (now banned). This guide explains Florida’s current 7-OH and kratom laws, including statewide rules, local bans, and buying considerations.
Current Legal Status in Florida
As of August 2025, 7-OH 7-OH is illegal statewide in Florida. On August 13, 2025, Attorney General James Uthmeier filed an emergency rule classifying isolated and concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine as a Schedule I controlled substance. Possession, sale, or distribution is prohibited.
Kratom leaf and powder remain legal under Florida’s KCPA, which sets age restrictions and product standards. Unlike 7-OH, kratom is not scheduled at the state level.
Local Restrictions in Florida
Florida permits local governments to impose their own rules. As of August 2025:
- Sarasota County – bans the sale and possession of all kratom products (including leaf and powder).
Tip: Always check your county or city ordinances before purchasing or traveling with kratom products.
State Laws on Kratom & 7-OH
- KCPA in place: Florida adopted the Kratom Consumer Protection Act in 2023, setting product standards and age limits.
- Age 21+: No sales of kratom to individuals under 21.
- Labeling & testing required: Products must meet quality standards and include accurate ingredient/lot labeling.
- 7-OH ban: Isolated or concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine is prohibited as of August 2025.
Legislative History & Updates
- 2023 – KCPA enacted: Florida created statewide standards for kratom sales.
- 2025 – Emergency rule: Attorney General classified 7-OH isolates as Schedule I controlled substances.
Buying Kratom in Florida
You can still legally buy kratom leaf and compliant extracts in Florida, provided they do not contain isolated or concentrated 7-OH. When shopping, look for:
- Third-party COAs: Independent lab tests verifying alkaloid content.
- Clear labeling: Batch/lot number, ingredients, and expiration date.
- Age verification: Reputable vendors enforce the 21+ rule.
Shipping & travel: Kratom can be shipped into Florida except Sarasota County. Vendors must avoid products with isolated 7-OH.
Neighboring State Laws
- Georgia: Legal and regulated under a state KCPA framework.
- Alabama: Kratom banned statewide.
- Mississippi: Patchwork of local bans; no statewide regulation.
Compared to its neighbors, Florida maintains a middle ground: statewide regulation (KCPA) but now a full ban on 7-OH isolates.
Why Laws May Change
Kratom laws continue to evolve. Florida’s decision to schedule 7-OH shows growing concern about concentrated derivatives. Possible future actions include:
- Tightening kratom rules (stricter testing, labeling, or marketing restrictions).
- Additional local bans like Sarasota’s ordinance expanding to other counties.
Consumers and retailers should monitor state and local government updates closely.
FAQ: 7-OH in Florida
Is 7-OH legal in Florida?
No. As of August 13, 2025, isolated and concentrated 7-OH is a Schedule I controlled substance statewide.
Is kratom legal in Florida?
Yes. Kratom leaf and compliant products remain legal under the Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act, except in Sarasota County.
What is the age limit for kratom sales?
Florida law prohibits kratom sales to anyone under 21.
Are kratom extracts legal?
Yes, provided they don’t contain isolated or concentrated 7-OH and meet labeling/quality rules.
Can online stores ship kratom to Florida?
Yes, but shipments to Sarasota County are prohibited. Vendors must also comply with age and product standards.
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.